Forest Green Rovers have signed Middlesbrough left-back Nathan McGinley on an initial loan deal until January.

The 21-year-old will then sign an 18 month deal when the transfer window re-opens in the new year.

McGinley, who can also play as a centre-back, was on loan at Wycombe Wanderers at the end of last season where he made 11 appearances and helped the Chairboys gain promotion to League One.

The six foot three defender came through the youth ranks at Boro and made his only first team appearance earlier this season in a Carabao Cup tie against Notts County earlier this months. He also made a handful of appearances in the Checkatrade Trophy for the under 23s last season.

On joining Rovers, McGinley said: “As soon as I heard about the offer I couldn’t wait to get down.

“I just want to be playing games every week now. It’s good playing for Middlesbrough but when you’re playing U23 football it’s so much different from first team league football, which is what I want.”

The youngster played a part in Wycombe’s promotion run at the end of last season and is hoping that will stand him in good stead for FGR.

“Obviously playing in the pressure games towards the end of the season is hard and it’s dealing with that pressure – when you push on every point is vital so hopefully I can bring that experience to Forest Green," he added.

Rovers boss Mark Cooper said: “He’s got all the credentials that we’re looking for – he’s athletic, he’s a big lad, left-footed, can play in various positions - and we think that he’ll be perfect for us.

“We’re trying to be selective and build the football club to make sure we’ve got solid foundations. We’ve got a squad full of players that have got real promise, most of them we own, and Nathan will add to that and I think he’s a really good acquisition. He gives us that cover on the left hand side and he’ll be desperate to get into the team.”