Gavin Skelton admits the departure of Sonny Hilton gives Carlisle United more “leeway” to bring players in.

The Fulham attacking midfielder returned to his parent club last week after struggling for first-team impact at Brunton Park.

His departure was followed by that of Jack Stretton, who opted for a permanent move to Stockport County.

It leaves United light in attacking positions and boss Paul Simpson is expected to add players soon.

“It [Hilton leaving] gives you more leeway because there’s a body gone out,” Skelton said.

“You’re always looking in those forward areas.”

Reports have today linked Carlisle with an approach for young Crystal Palace forward John-Kymani Gordon.

The Cumbrians have not commented on any potential targets.

Hilton failed to make a single league start for Carlisle in an injury-hit spell.

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The 21-year-old joined in the summer on a season-long loan but that was cut short after ten appearances.

Assistant manager Skelton said of the former England youth player: “It just didn’t quite happen. It didn’t get going for him.

“He’s a great lad – you couldn’t say a bad word about him. He was fantastic around the place, but it just didn’t click for whatever reason.

“I’m sure he’ll go somewhere else and it’ll work.

“His best period was unfortunately [just before] got injured at Newport – he came on and really affected the game, and you’re thinking, ‘Go on, kick on’, but he got that ankle injury, then we went on a good run of form so it was hard for him to get in the team or get any rhythm.

“Unfortunately it didn’t work for him but he goes with our best wishes back to Fulham.

“We wish him all the best and I’m sure he’ll go on and have a good career.”