Former Workington Reds favourite Sam Smith has signed for Carlisle City and could make his debut this weekend.

The defender, who left Borough Park at the end of last season, has linked up with Dan Kirkup's side in Northern League Division One.

He is set to feature for City in their trip to Easington Colliery on Saturday.

Smith, 31, had announced his retirement at the end of last term after a long-serving stint at Borough Park.

He was one of three highly-respected players to bring the curtain down on his Reds career along with Conor Tinnion and Scott Allison.

But Smith will now get his boots back on for City, who are sixth in Division One after a strong start to the season.

The experienced defender's arrival is timely for Kirkup and his side, who have lost young Carlisle United loan defender Josh O'Brien to an ankle injury.

United are awaiting the results of an X-ray after 18-year-old O'Brien, who is on crutches, was stretchered off during City's midweek victory over Birtley Town.

Announcing Smith's arrival, City said: "We are delighted to confirm the signing of Sam Smith.

"Sam brings a wealth of knowledge and experience and will be valuable addition to the squad.

"He will be available for selection for this weekends visit to Easington. Welcome Sam!"

Smith is the second experienced player to join City in the last week, with former United coach Jake Simpson also linking up with Kirkup's side.

Simpson scored on his debut in last weekend's win over Blyth Town and was again a substitute in the victory against Birtley.

Smith ended his Reds career in style in April when he scored a late winner on his final appearance against Guiseley on the last day of the campaign.

Workington, meanwhile, this week brought in teenage Carlisle United duo Aran Fitzpatrick and Jake Allan on work experience loans. They made their first appearances in Tuesday's defeat at Blyth Spartans and will be in the squad to face Matlock Town on Saturday in Northern Premier League Premier Division.