It sounds like Jed Ward’s loan spell at Forest Green Rovers is proving to be a great success, and with Josh Griffiths performing strongly at Bristol Rovers, the future looks bright for the Gas’ goalkeeping department. Ward gaining valuable first-team experience while Griffiths handles the pressure at League One level is a solid strategy, especially with Ward poised to return as a potential first-choice option in the near future. Both keepers are certainly drawing attention with their performances!
Bristol Rovers manager Matt Taylor has provided an update on the development of young goalkeeper Jed Ward, who is currently on loan at Forest Green Rovers. Ward, 21, has been enjoying a strong start to his season in the National League, playing every minute for Forest Green, who sit second in the table after being named pre-season favourites for promotion. Ward has kept four clean sheets in nine appearances and received particular praise for his penalty saves against Boston United and Solihull Moors, as well as a key contribution to Forest Green’s late winner against Sutton United.
Taylor revealed that Rovers are closely monitoring Ward’s progress, with goalkeeping coach Scott Brown attending several of his matches. The loan was designed to provide Ward with regular game time and continued development after his impressive performances for Bristol Rovers last season. Taylor expressed confidence in Ward’s ability to perform well at Forest Green and highlighted the importance of this loan experience for his growth as a player.
Rovers currently have West Brom loanee Josh Griffiths as their first-choice goalkeeper, and despite a mistake in the recent 4-0 defeat to Wigan Athletic, Griffiths has been one of Rovers’ standout performers this season. He leads League One in saves made and is among the top goalkeepers for clean sheets and goals prevented. However, Taylor acknowledged the need to strengthen Rovers’ goalkeeping options, particularly as he does not yet feel Matt Hall is ready for League One football. Rovers are exploring the free agent market for a goalkeeper to provide cover for Griffiths and bridge the gap in the squad.
Looking ahead, Ward signed a four-year contract in March, and the plan is for him to return to Bristol Rovers next season with valuable experience, ready to compete for the first-choice role. His recent caps for England Under-20s further highlight his upward trajectory, and Rovers remain committed to his long-term development.
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