Iain Turner chased by Swindon Town and Bristol Rovers

Swindon Town and Bristol Rovers have expressed an interest in signing goalkeeper Iain Turner after he appeared on trial for both clubs.

The 28-year-old is a free agent following his release from Preston.

He played 35 minutes in Swindon's win over Salisbury on Friday, before playing for Rovers in their 3-0 defeat by Bristol City on Saturday.

"It's a strange one but from my point of view it's more football," Turner told BBC Wiltshire.

Turner the loan journeyman

Turner has previously spent time on loan at Chester, Doncaster, Wycombe, Crystal Palace, Sheffield Wednesday, Nottingham Forest, Coventry, Preston and Dunfermline

"The more I play, the more chances I have of getting a club.

"I had a few injuries last season which didn't help things but I just want a chance to show what I can do."

Turner spent eight years at Everton, although he had limited game time with the Blues and spent the majority of his spell on loan at Football League level.

He joined Preston on a permanent deal in July 2011 but was loaned out to Dunfermline six months later.

Analysis

  • BBC Wiltshire's Chris Wise:

"Turner was only given 35 minutes to impress on Friday, against a team that rarely threatened Swindon's goal.

"He did what he what he had to do and, judging by the comments of Di Canio, could earn himself a contract at the club.

"I'd imagine they would hand him a short-term deal to prove his worth but he'll be hard-pushed to displace Wes Foderingham as first-choice."

  • BBC Radio Bristol's Andy Howard:

"On Saturday there's no doubt he was at fault for Bristol City's first goal and he'll be disappointed with the second too. However, in between he made some sharp reflex saves and kicked well.

"Scott Bevan looked assured in goal last season for Rovers, and McGhee said he had done enough to stay number one.

"Turner may be looking to be the first choice at his next club, and he looks good enough to play at League Two level, at least."

Injury restricted him to four appearances for the Scottish outfit and he returned to North End before being released in May.

Town manager Paolo Di Canio handed Turner a trial at the County Ground last week and was impressed with his performance in their 3-0 victory on Friday.

"He made one good save and one block - he was comfortable," said the Italian.

"He's a good goalkeeper and one with experience. We would have him but I want to wait a few more days."

Rovers manager Mark McGhee said he would also be interested in signing the keeper as cover for Scott Bevan, who will miss the start of the season with a wrist injury.

However, McGhee concedes the draw of League One football next season might tempt Turner to join Swindon instead.

"He's rusty as he's not been playing games but I thought he was terrific," said McGhee.

"They [Swindon] are interested in him so I'm not sure he's one we are able to keep, but we are certainly interested as well.

"He'll go back to train this week at Swindon and see what happens.

"If they were to offer him something I think he'd want to stay in League One. If they don't then he would certainly be an option for us."