DAN Nlundulu has returned to Cheltenham Town.

The Saints striker initially joined the League One outfit on loan in January, impressing in his first four appearances, which included a goal against Charlton Athletic.

But the 23-year-old's time in Gloucestershire was swiftly cut short, after he suffered a season-ending hamstring injury.

Nlundulu, whose Saints contract runs until 2024, is now back fit and has returned to Cheltenham on a deal until January 8, 2023.

Born in France, Nlundulu was an England youth international.

He has made 16 appearances for Saints, mainly as a substitute, scoring on his only start, which came against Shrewsbury Town in the FA Cup in January 2021.

Originally part of Chelsea's academy, the forward spent the first half of last season on loan at Lincoln City, before switching to Cheltenham.

The Robins have just appointed a new boss, in Southampton-born Wade Elliott.

Elliott spent time in Saints' academy, before joining Bashley and then AFC Bournemouth. He left Cherries to join Burnley and played every game of the 2009-10 Premier League season for the Clarets.

Discussing Nlundulu's arrival at the Completely-Suzuki Stadium, Elliott told Cheltenham's website: "We're delighted that Dan is back in the building.

"He has been our number one target at the top end of the pitch and since he went back to Southampton last season we have maintained a dialogue with him.

"We made it clear the role we saw for him this season and it's great that we have not only got him in, but also that he has arrived early so our thanks go to Southampton for their co-operation with that.

"It means that he can have a full pre-season with us and I'm sure he'll be ready to go by the time of our first league game."

Cheltenham begin their campaign at home against relegated Peterborough United on July 30.

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