Ashley Vincent will leave Cheltenham Town to join Colchester United today, pending a medical at the Robins' League One rivals.

The 23-year-old winger will sign on loan until the end of the season, when his Cheltenham contract expires, and the move will become permanent in the summer.

MK Dons were also in the chase to land Vincent's signature, but he will join his close friend and former Robins colleague Steven Gillespie in Essex.

He becomes the third player to quit Whaddon Road in the past fortnight, following Lloyd Owusu and Alex Russell, who switched to Brighton and Exeter City respectively.

Speed merchant Vincent, who has scored six goals this season, has produced his most sparkling form for Cheltenham under Martin Allen's management.

Allen said it was no surprise that Vincent attracted the interests of several bigger clubs this season.

"Ashley is going to a very progressive club in Colchester United," Allen said.

"He came to see me on Monday morning and thanked me for everything I have done for him.

"He said I was the first manager who has given him an opportunity on a regular basis and showed belief in him.

"At times I have given him a hard time and pushed him, but he scores goals from the right of midfield and anyone who does that is gold dust."

Vincent has missed Cheltenham's last two matches with a knee ligament problem he suffered in the 2-2 draw at Swindon Town on March 3, but he is due for a return to action within the next three weeks.

Allen had eight fit professionals taking part in yesterday's training session ahead of tonight's home match against play-off hopefuls Tranmere Rovers.

Paul Connor and Elvis Hammond are both struggling with niggling injuries, while Damian Spencer (ankle) and Nicholas Bignall (groin) are also doubtful.

First year scholars striker Jake Lee and right-back Kyle Haynes will be promoted to the first team squad, but Allen says his young guns have breathed new life into a team that are 13 points from safety with just 10 matches remaining.

"When you bring young players in, like we have, it can rejuvenate, bringing a freshness and an honesty and that was more than apparent on Saturday," he said.

"A couple more wins and it could all change quickly and that often happens in football.

"You can get a bit of momentum and sometimes from the depths you come back."