Midfielder in post Bristol City transfer as he finds new club after summer exit

Recently released Bristol City midfielder Joe Porton has found a new home.

Porton was one of nine players released by the Robins in May, and he has decided to continue his playing career in the non-league. The 19-year-old has signed with Melksham Town - who play in the eighth tier of Welsh football.

Porton rejoins the club that he was at from February onwards, and hopes to pick up where he left off after earning three man-of-the-match awards during his time at the Oakfield Stadium.

"I really am pleased to have secured Joe’s signature,” said manager Mark Collier.

“He made a big impression on me last season. He has a winning mentality, technically very good, works his socks off and will be very important to us going  forward.”

Porton is a one-time Wales Under-19 international and played alongside his City academy teammate Harry Leeson. He made several appearances for the Under-21’s who finished second in the Professional Development League last year.

He is the third player to find a new club after being released from his contract. Will Buse signed permanently with his hometown club Yeovil Town, meanwhile Jay Dasilva made the move to Championship rivals Coventry City.

Nathan Baker, Taylor Moore, James Morton, Prince Henry, Josh Owers and James Taylor were also released. Han-Noah Massengo, Andy King and Tomas Kalas were offered new contracts and King is expected to sign up for a third season, and will enter his second as a player-coach. Kalas is still considering his options, meanwhile Massengo is unlikely to stay and the contract offer is more of an attempt to get compensation for the Frenchman