Gretna 2008 sign former Carlisle United youth player

Defender Alex Potts has joined the Raydale Park club ahead of the new Lowland League season.

Potts follows former Blues academy product Lewis Bell into Bryan Gilfillan's squad.

He was one of seven youth team players to be released by the Blues after his two year under-18 scholarship at Brunton Park.

Manager Gilfillan said he was delighted to have brought in a player of Potts' capabilities.

"I'm over the moon to get Pottsy," he said.

"I've been pestering him throughout pre-season to sign for me.

"He's been training and playing with a couple of other clubs, but I'm delighted that his future lies with us at Gretna."

Gretna boss Bryan Gilfillan, left, pictured with Carlisle boss Paul Simpson at the clubs' recent friendly (Image: Barbara Abbott)

Potts joined United's youth side as a central midfielder but was later used at right-back.

Gilfillan, speaking on Gretna's official channels, added of the "aggressive" defender: "He's had a very good education with Carlisle United although I'm genuinely surprised he's not at a higher level.

"I think he's a tremendous defender, he reads the game very well and always seems to be in the right place at the right time."

Potts becomes the latest of the seven released youngsters to get fixed up with another club.

Dan Hill signed for Carlisle City earlier this season, while keeper Lewis Boyd has been on trial with Workington Reds.

Bell, from the young professional ranks, signed for former loan club Gretna earlier this month while Scott Simons has linked up with Carlisle City.