Divisive is probably too strong a word but throughout his two-and-a-half years with Bristol Rovers, Cian Harries was certainly a player who sparked considerable debate.
There were a strong number of Gasheads who appreciated his versatility, ball-playing ability from the back, commitment and snap in the tackle and role as a squad member who could be plugged into a variety of positions allowing for tactical flexibility, plus there was always that goal at Mansfield Town.
His detractors cited his rashness in the challenge, with a disciplinary record to match, and apparent questionable defensive positioning which meant we never really discovered what his best position in which system was.
There are probably no right answers, and certainly neither side of the argument is likely to concede ground now that the 25-year-old has left the Gas so his reputation is set, whichever way you want to remember him.
That being said, what can’t be questioned is that of the relegation squad of 2020/21, he was one of the few survivors who Joey Barton believed had the requisite quality to get Rovers back into League One. And his 56 appearances after signing in January 2020 mean he’ll always be remembered in some capacity and made an undeniable impact, irrespective of your personal viewpoint.
On Tuesday, Harries was confirmed as a Swindon Town player, having been released at the end of last season, with the former Swansea and Coventry defender signing a one-year contract at the County Ground.
All things considered, it’s a fantastic move for the Welshman but whether sparked by the above or the identity of his new club, news of his destination wasn’t greeted with overwhelming gratitude among some elements of the Rovers support.
There were many who thanked him for his service, wishing him well for the future but others dug up familiar and tired criticisms of apparent deficiencies.
Taking to Twitter to bid farewell to BS7, Harries addressed some of his critics as he said: “Just catching up on my Twitter. Disappointed to see some real out of order words from Rovers fans.
"Relegated, Promoted & seen a whole lot more in my 2 & half years there. Minority doing their best to ruin it for the majority. Thanks to those for their kind words & all the best.”
Even though Rovers and Swindon are now in different divisions, with the Robins missing out on promotion after losing in the play-off semi-final to Port Vale, Harries could come up against his former employers in the Papa John's Trophy.
Rovers and Swindon have been drawn in Group E in the South alongside Plymouth Argyle and Crystal Palace Under-21s with fixtures still to be scheduled.
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