FOREST Green boss Dave Hockaday has added former Arsenal starlet Jeffrey Imudia to his squad.

Right-back Imudia, 21, sustained a serious knee injury in only his third game for Forest Green, which ruled him out of the game for nearly 18 months.

However, he returned to the New Lawn in February to prove his fitness - and has now been rewarded with a 12-month contract.

Upon his release from Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal, Imudia trained with Crystal Palace before the then Watford academy coach Hockaday brought him to Vicarage Road.

He then took Imudia with him to Southampton before linking up again at Forest Green.

"Jeffrey injured his cruciate ligaments and suffered cartilage damage, a horrible combination, so it's been a long road back for him," said Hockaday.

"He's got to this stage entirely off his own back, which is great credit to him, and it's been great to see him back with the club. He is a terrific player."

Rovers have also finalised a two-year deal with former Swindon Town and Cirencester Town keeper Matt Bulman Hockaday's squad currently sits at 17 players ,but backed by ambitious chairman Dale Vince, the Rovers manager is still working feverishly in the transfer market. He added: "We're looking for an experienced midfield player and striker and defender to really make that difference.

Rovers commence pre-season training on June 30.