FOREST Green have signed striker Nathaniel Jarvis on a short-term loan from Championship side Cardiff City in time for Saturday’s FA Trophy game against AFC Totton at The New Lawn.

The 20-year-old’s arrival will negate the loss of striker Ben Wright who is now sidelined for a minimum of three-months after scans revealed torn ligaments in his knee.

Jarvis will be available to play in up to nine games before the deal expires following Rovers league match at Hyde on January 5.

The striker played in Cardiff’s pre-season friendly against Forest Green at the New Lawn back in July but has made just one first team appearance for the Bluebirds this season – as a substitute in their League Cup loss to Northampton.

He spent much of last season on loan at Blue Square Premier Newport County where he netted six times in 31 league appearances, including the opening goal in their 1-1 draw with Forest Green at The New Lawn last September – plus three goals in four cup games.

Born in Cardiff, Jarvis joined the academy of his hometown club at the age of eight and signed professional terms with Cardiff City in July last year. He previously spent time out on loan at Southend United – where he made his senior debut.

Forest Green manager David Hockaday said: "We first saw Nathaniel last year when he was on loan at Newport; he’s very quick and powerful and because he’s played at this level he knows what to expect.

"Unfortunately Ben Wright has damaged both the posterior cruciate ligament and medial ligament in his knee, so will be out for a minimum of three months. "While Phil Marsh is on a three-month loan deal, which still has a month and a half to run.

"The Christmas and New Year period is always a tough period with a lot of games in a short space of time; and Nathaniel’s young, hungry, and keen to come and fight for a place."