Cheltenham Town manager Michael Duff has opted not to sign former Bristol City defender Vincent Harper, despite the defender featuring in three friendly matches as on trial.

Harper, who plies his trade at left-back, has been denied the chance to represent the Robins in their upcoming Sky Bet League One season due to Duff's decision.

The 20-year-old featured for 45 minutes against Birmingham City, in 62 minutes against Coventry City and for the full ninety against Kidderminster Harriers throughout pre-season, as Duff was eager to bring in some competition for experienced defender Chris Hussey, who was a hero in the Robins promotion last year.

Once declared as the heir to Joe Bryan and Lloyd Kelly at Bristol City by Bristol Live, Harper has endured loan spells throughout Gloucestershire, playing for Gloucester City, Weston-Super-Mare and Bath City.

Speaking to the Gloucestershire Live, Duff commented on his decision, saying: "He's done all right has Vince. You can see his obvious attributes and he has his detriments, but they all have because, with respect, we are League One players.

"He has done himself no harm and he should definitely be in the Football League, I know that for a fact."

The verdict

Whilst it is always frustrating for a player to go on trial and not be offered a contract, Harper can take some solace from Duff claiming he should be playing in the Football League. His next location is currently unknown, but a young left-back who looked solid in his three friendlies for Cheltenham should be snapped up relatively quickly, and from there his career can really take off.