Former Carlisle United defender Rod McDonald says the chance to come home was key to his decision to join Crewe Alexandra.

McDonald became the latest of the Blues’ released players to get fixed up with a new club.

It sees the centre-half join one of United's League Two rivals in the shape of the relegated Railwaymen.

He is one of two former Blues to sign for Crewe this summer after Kelvin Mellor’s earlier switch to the Alexandra Stadium.

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McDonald was let go by Paul Simpson at the end of last season after two campaigns and 66 appearances for the Cumbrians.

Speaking to the local media about his move to Crewe on a one-year deal, the 30-year-old said: “I’m buzzing. The good factor is I’m back home, and it’s been a long time. I’m excited to get going.

“I spoke to Alex pretty early in the window, and it was back and forth, and the last week [it] came back and as soon as I knew they really wanted to sign me I was keen to get going.

“It’s my home-town club. My family’s here, friends – and my children. I’ve been travelling up and down the country for the last ten years so it’s nice to be home every night.

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“[The manager] has just said to come in and do what I do best. I’m excited to show the fans and players what I can do. I’m aggressive in the air, like to think I’m strong and read the game pretty well.”

Asked for his aims with Crewe, McDonald said: “Just to be at the top end of the table as we should be, and pushing for promotion.”

The former Carlisle, Coventry and Northampton man also said the facilities at Crewe were “the best” he has experienced in the bottom two divisions.

Mellor and McDonald could face Carlisle when Crewe visit Brunton Park on October 1 in the 2022/23 season.