SHORTWOOD boss Alex Sykes has signed former Forest Green Academy teenager Jack Freeman and ex-Cheltenham Town midfielder Sam Mendes.

The 17-year-old left-sided midfielder is set to play for Shortwood Reserves in their Hellenic League Division One West game at home to Fairford Town on Saturday.
Stonehouse-based Mendes was not offered a professional contract by the Robins at the end of last season and played for Gloucester City during pre-season.

He made his Cheltenham debut last season against Oxford City in the FA Trophy and he also spent time on loan at Cinderford Town and played for Gloucester City during pre-season.

He played for Shortwood Reserves last weekend in their 4-1 win at Milton and boss Nick Ackland said: "This is a good move for the club. He is very talented and has a great attitude and will go a long way."