FORMER Colchester United defender Riley Harbottle has joined Bristol Rovers.
The 25-year-old centre-back, who spent time on loan at the U’s in the second half of the 2023/24 season, has joined Rovers from League One side AFC Wimbledon on a contract until 2028.
Advertisement
Harbottle could make his Rovers debut against Colchester when the sides meet tomorrow.
Harbottle told the Bristol Rovers website: “I’m delighted to be at Bristol Rovers.
“Coming to a Club of this size is a no-brainer. I think it’s a big opportunity for me to go and build on what I did last season.
“I think the manager has tried to sign me a few times, so knowing that I am wanted was a big thing after not playing as much this season, after a really successful one last year.
Advertisement
“January is a busy period, and you’ve got to be ready. You’ve got to make sure you’re doing everything right at your previous club, so if an opportunity does come, you can take it as soon as it comes.”
How Matt Macey’s ‘amazing’ Bristol Rovers spell paved the way for a fine career
Harbottle made 12 appearances for Colchester after being signed by Danny Cowley in the January transfer window in the 2023/24 season, after joining them on loan from Hibs.
Advertisement
He started his career at Nottingham Forest and also had loan spells at Mansfield and Wealdstone and joined AFC Wimbledon in the summer of 2024.
