YORK City left-back Alex Whittle has quit Bootham Crescent to join Forest Green Rovers.

The 24-year-old has agreed a deal at the League Two strugglers until the end of the season, a move which will go through when the transfer window opens on Monday, January 1.

He has been allowed to leave on a free transfer, according to the New Lawn outfit, who currently prop up the Football League.

“I’m buzzing about the move,” Whittle told the Forest Green club website.

“I’ve been waiting to get the chance to play in the Football League so I’m delighted to get it."

City manager Martin Gray said: "Alex wanted to play at the highest level possible and play in the Football League, so I can understand (his decision) as it is a very attractive opportunity."

Whittle had put in a transfer request at City following their relegation to National League North in May and was subsequently left out of the side that lifted the FA Trophy at Wembley by the then manager Gary Mills.

Nevertheless, despite interest over the summer from National League club Aldershot, the left-sided defender decided to stay at Bootham Crescent and he again became a regular under Mills.

However, he has been left out of the last three squads by Mills' successor, Gray, with David Ferguson preferred at left-back. 

The last of his 68 City appearances came in last month's home game against Kidderminster Harriers.

Whittle, a former Liverpool Academy, Dunfermline Athletic and AFC Fylde player, was brought to Bootham Crescent by then manager Jackie McNamara from Southport in May 2016, following the team's relegation from the Football League. He was given a one-year contract with the option of a further year, which, despite his transfer request in May, was taken up.

On his imminent move to Forest Green, Whittle said he wanted to prove himself at Football League level.

“The philosophy of the style of play was a big selling factor for me. They always try to get the ball down and try and play," he told the Green Devils' website.

“It worked well for them last season and I know they are trying to play that way again this season.

“I’ve just got to come in, work hard and I always give it my all and I hope to get my chance and take it.”

He added: “I like to get forward but as a 1-v-1 defender I am quick and confident with that side of my game as well.

“At Liverpool, it was hard for me to leave because they are a top club but I tried to establish myself up in Scotland with Dunfermline and enjoyed myself up there.

"I’ve come back down to England in the last few years and have done alright with York and I’m looking to kick on again now.

"I’ve always been waiting for a chance to get back into the League and hopefully I can take that.

“It will be a little bit of a step up but I am hoping I can adjust well.”