FORMER captain Darren Jones has revealed Forest Green's support following his release from prison helped him get his life and football career back on track.

Jones, 25, who sealed a move to League Two Hereford United this summer, will remain forever grateful to the Nailsworth club, who offered him a way back in the game after serving time for assault three years ago.

Then Forest Green manager Gary Owers offered Jones an olive branch and the rugged Welshman grabbed the footballing opportunity with both feet.

"I will always be grateful to Forest Green for giving me the chance to restart my footballing career after leaving prison," revealed Jones.

"I would like to thank Trevor (Horsley), the board, the fans and Jim Harvey for my time at the New Lawn."

Jones feels Harvey played a significant role in his rehabilitation. He also hinted a return to the New Lawn at some stage during his career.

"Jim Harvey has certainly improved me as a player. I am now looking forward to playing in League Two, but certainly wouldn't rule out a return to Rovers in the future."

However, Jones believes his old club could be in for a tough season.

"I really hope the club can do well, but with a reduced budget it will be difficult to compete at that level."

Jones has teamed up with former Forest Green favourite Jamie Pitman, who left the New Lawn last season to take up a physio role at Edgar Street, but will combine that with a new coaching role.

Jones added: "Jamie laid the concrete for the move and I am glad it has all been sorted. Mansfield, Rushden, Kettering and Histon were all interested in signing me, but I was holding out for a league club."

Jones began his career as a professional trainee for Bristol City, making one Football League appearance before joining Forest Green in September 2002.

He was loaned to League Two side Cheltenham Town in 2003, where he made 14 league appearances.

He dropped down in to non-league football and signed for Newport County on a free transfer in early 2004, before returning to Forest Green for a second spell in March 2006.

Jones was a pivotal part in keeping Rovers in the Conference on his return to Forest Green and was a central part in the defence when Rovers recorded their highest ever finish in the 2007-08 season.