Carlisle United said they would be busy in the new year and they have, with a third deal tied up inside 48 hours.
It’s another loan extension but a key one as far as Blues boss Mark Hughes is concerned.
Alex Gilliead’s loan deal from Shrewsbury Town has been extended until the end of the season.
Gilliead, 29, returned to Brunton Park on an initial half-season loan in early September and has since appeared in 20 Enterprise National League matches, as well as featuring in the Emirates FA Cup and Isuzu FA Trophy.
Hughes said: “I’m delighted that the club has been able to extend Alex’s loan, continuing a spell that has already proven hugely influential both on and off the pitch.
“Since arriving, he has brought a calm, composed presence that has helped steady performances in key moments, while his outstanding capacity for work on the field of play has set a high standard for those around him.
“Off the pitch, his professionalism and attitude have made a positive impact within the squad, and the club looks forward to seeing him build on this influence during the remainder of his loan spell.”
Carlisle have just signed defender Ryan Galvin from Barnet for an undisclosed fee while midfielder Chris Conn-Clarke has had his loan from Peterborough extended to the end of the season. Both players are aged 24.
