Harry Cornick has ended his association with Bristol City, joining League One side AFC Wimbledon on a one-year deal following his summer release from Ashton Gate. The contract includes an option for a further year, according to BBC Sport.

Three-and-a-half years at Ashton Gate comes to an end

The 31-year-old forward spent three-and-a-half seasons with the Championship club before being released at the end of last term. His final year at Bristol City was disrupted by injury, and he spent the second half of last season on loan at Stevenage in League Two, where he sought to rebuild his fitness and form.

Cornick had arrived at Ashton Gate with a considerable reputation built over several years at Luton Town, where he played a significant part in the Hatters' rise from League Two through to the Championship, scoring 38 goals in 235 appearances. His ability to stretch defences and his industry in attacking areas made him a reliable Championship-level operator for much of his career.

Wimbledon boss Jackson backs Cornick to rediscover form

AFC Wimbledon manager Johnnie Jackson was forthright in his enthusiasm for the signing. "Harry's a player that I've long admired, and he's had a good career," Jackson told the club website. "He's obviously had a difficult season last season with the injury that he picked up. But I think he's still at an age where we feel like we can get him firing. He can be a big player for us."

The deal underlines how injury can affect a player's standing even after a sustained period in the second tier. Cornick, who turns 32 this season, will now look to use the Wimbledon move as a platform to prove he retains the quality that made him a reliable performer during his time with both Luton and Bristol City.

What it means for Bristol City

For Bristol City, Cornick's departure is the conclusion of a natural parting of ways. With his contract not renewed, the club have clearly opted to reshape their attacking options as they look to push further up the Championship table. The Robins have already moved in the transfer market this summer, strengthening their forward line, and Cornick's exit creates space in the squad for fresh additions.

His time at the club will be remembered with some fondness by supporters, even if his final months were hampered by the injury setback that ultimately curtailed his contributions. At his best, he offered a direct and energetic outlet that suited Championship football, and Bristol City benefited from those qualities during his better spells at Ashton Gate.

A Championship career defined by persistence

Cornick's story is one of consistent second-tier service across several clubs and seasons. Luton's rise through the divisions owed something to his goals and movement, and his time at Bristol City, despite a difficult ending, added further Championship experience to his CV.

Whether he can recapture that form for Wimbledon in the third tier remains to be seen, but Jackson's comments suggest confidence that the striker still has something to offer. The one-year structure, with an option attached, gives both parties a chance to reassess at the end of the campaign, a sensible arrangement given the injury background.

For Bristol City, the focus will now be on the season ahead and the players who remain at the club. Cornick's next chapter begins in League One; the Robins press on in the Championship without him.

Frequently asked

Why did Harry Cornick leave Bristol City?
Cornick was released by Bristol City in the summer after three-and-a-half years at Ashton Gate. His final season was disrupted by injury, and he spent the second half of it on loan at Stevenage.
Where has Harry Cornick signed after leaving Bristol City?
Cornick has joined AFC Wimbledon on a one-year deal with the option of a further year, according to BBC Sport.
What is Harry Cornick's goal record before joining Bristol City?
Before arriving at Bristol City, Cornick scored 38 goals in 235 appearances for Luton Town, where he played a key role in their rise from League Two to the Championship.