CHELTENHAM Town have snapped up former Town wing-back Jack Barthram.

The 21-year-old had been available on a free after being released by Swindon at the end of last season and has now made the short move to new Conference Premier side Cheltenham.

Barthram was signed by Town in June 2013 having come through the youth system at Tottenham Hotspur, but not been retained by the Premier League big-boys.

Cheltenham boss Gary Johnson believes he has signed a player capable of playing at a higher level.

Johnson said: “This signing is a real coup for the club because there is no doubt in my mind that Jack is potentially a Championship standard player.

“He is quick, with great energy and also end product. The grounding he has had at Tottenham and Swindon is only going to benefit us and I’ve managed to convince him he’s coming to a Football League club, even though we are in the National League this season.

“He did have other offers and he’s had experience in League One because he has real quality. He’s one that will excite the fans and a positive character too.

“I also got Munnsy (Jack Munns) to have a word with him because they know each other from Spurs and I am very happy to be able to bring him here.”

Barthram made a total of 23 appearances for Town, including twelve from the bench, scoring once.