Forest Green Rovers have signed versatile defender Dom Bernard on a one-year deal following a successful trial with the club.

The 22-year-old was invited to train with Mark Cooper’s side from the start of pre-season following his release from Championship side Birmingham City and proceeded to join the club on their training camp in Devon and featured against Cardiff City and Swindon Supermarine.

Predominantly a right-back, the Gloucester-born player can also play at left-back and in a back three. 

Bernard, who had a loan spell at National League Aldershot Town last season, is now looking to prove himself in the EFL. 

He said “The club is a unique one and it is eye-catching, with me being a local lad, living around the corner and having come to games in the past.

“I like to think I’m versatile, I pretty much have experience in any defensive role, which helps me in my game.

“Looking at last season, the team had a great campaign and I’m here for healthy competition and hopefully the team can make that extra push for promotion.”

Head of recruitment, Richard Hughes added: “It’s great to get Dom into the club after he impressed during his spell with us down in Devon and the two games against Cardiff City and Swindon Supermarine.

“He is an adaptable player who will give us that competition across the backline of the team.

“He is another young player but with experience under his belt, having played in the National League last season, and we have the benefit that he has already been with the squad for the last two weeks.

“We’re really happy with our business so far this summer and how early we have got it done.”

Bernard started his career with Birmingham City at the age of 12 where came up through the academy and captained their Under 18s. 

He came through the system and was knocking on the door of the first team before an Achilles injury saw him sidelined for almost a year.

On his return from injury, he went on loan to Aldershot, where he made more than 30 appearances last season.

Bernard joined up with Forest Green ahead of their pre-season training camp in Devon. 

His squad number will be confirmed later in the summer. 

The signing is subject to FA and EFL approval.

Watch his first interview in full below.