Forest Green Rovers have signed versatile full-back Dom Bernard following a successful trial period 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.

Having featured against Cardiff City and Swindon Supermarine, Bernard has earned himself a one-year-contract at The New Lawn.

Predominantly a right full-back, the Gloucester-born player can also play at left full-back and in a back three, making him a useful addition to the squad and he is now looking to prove himself.

Bernard 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.”

Richard Hughes, head of recruitment, said: “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 and came up through the academy.

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 National League side Aldershot Town, where he made more than 30 appearances last season.

Bernard joined up with Forest Green ahead of their pre-season training camp in Devon and will be given his squad number later this summer.