Carlisle United boss: Stevenage wanted Joshua Kayode

The Blues secured the striker’s return for a third loan at Brunton Park on transfer deadline day.

Rotherham frontman Kayode had been interesting other clubs with Barnsley among those linked.

And manager Simpson said the big frontman had also been attracting the attention of Steve Evans’ Stevenage.

Kayode made his first league appearance of the season for United with a start in their 2-2 draw at the Lamex Stadium.

“You can see why Stevenage wanted to bring him into the club as well,” Simpson said.

“He’s their type of player, because he backs in and makes it difficult for defenders to head.

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“That’s why it was difficult for Jon Mellish, Paul Huntington, Sam Lavelle, because nothing’s a free header [against Stevenage].

“JJ does that as well. He caused problems.

“I think there’s still a lot more to come from him, he’ still finding his feet and fitness, the challenge for us is to make sure we keep him fit, get him even fitter and I’m sure we’ll see even more from him if we do that.”

Kayode's return has proved popular with fans (Image: Barbara Abbott)

Kayode’s start on Saturday was his third league debut for the Cumbrians.

His first came against Oldham Athletic in January 2020, with his second against Cambridge United in September 2020.

Kayode’s presence back in United’s league ranks proved popular with fans at Stevenage.

The 23-year-old spent time greeting supporters and posing for photos after Carlisle’s battling 2-2 draw.

Simpson, meanwhile, said United’s players are getting some downtime this week after their busy recent schedule.

“They have a couple of days’ recovery from them then we’re back in and we’ll go again,” the manager added.

“Hopefully they’ll be able to enjoy some time with their families and switch off a little bit from football, make sure they’re professional, then we come back in and start preparing for another tough away game at Lincoln.”