Former Bristol Rovers wing-back makes National League switch following Gas release

Ryan Jones has joined National League side Aldershot Town on a two-year deal after leaving Bristol Rovers at the end of last season, making the versatile wing-back, who was also known to play in midfield, the fifth player of the seven released to find a new club.

The 22-year-old made seven appearances for the Gas having joined from Weston-super-Mare in 2020 but spent last term on loan at Bromley, a spell that proved counterproductive.

Jones suffered an injury early into his time at the eventual National League play-off winners but following his return to action, the club opted to extend his loan that was set to end in January until the end of the season. However, it was quickly deemed that the wing-back was surplus to requirements and he spent the remainder of the campaign back at Rovers training but, because he was still technically on loan, he couldn't play for the Gas or go elsewhere.

A number of links have emerged over the years between Rovers and Aldershot with current Shots manager Tommy Widdrington the Gas' former director of football while head of recruitment Jamie Hedges was an analyst with Rovers.

Additionally, a number of former Rovers players are currently at the fifth tier side or have featured for them since leaving BS7, including the likes of Jordi van Stappershoef, Cameron Hargreaves, Josh Barrett, Zain Walker and Cian Harries.

On the move, Jones told Aldershot's club media: "Really happy to get it done. The manager showed that he wanted me early doors so really pleased to get it over the line.

"It makes it easier [working with Tommy Widdrington again], not just the settling in process. A bit of security knowing that he knows me as a player so it does help a little bit."

Alongside the 22-year-old, Sam Finley (Tranmere Rovers), Harvey Greenslade (Yeovil Town), Lewis Gordon (Chesterfield), and James Gibbons (Cambridge United) have found new clubs after leaving the Gas at the end of their contracts while John Marquis and Josh Grant remain free agents. Rovers also confirmed that Jordan Rossiter has left the club upon the expiry of his contract earlier today.