Carlisle United have pledged to offer "ongoing support" to new signing Jack Diamond as he resumes his career after being cleared of rape.

The Blues today confirmed the arrival of the Sunderland winger on loan until the end of the season.

The move sees Diamond return to football having been charged with rape and sexual assault in March last year. He was cleared of all charges by a jury earlier this month.

United issued a statement saying it was "the right thing" to help Diamond "move on" from the case.

Chief executive Nigel Clibbens said: “We would like to give Jack a very warm welcome to Brunton Park and Carlisle United. 

“As he joins us, it is important for us to set out the club’s position on Jack’s recent acquittal.

“It is a matter of public record and widespread media reporting that Jack has recently faced prosecution and charges at a Crown Court trial, with all the headlines and intense public scrutiny that brings. That has overshadowed the last two years of his personal life and career.

“Following the conclusion of that judicial process in early January 2024, a jury at Newcastle Crown Court found him not guilty of all the charges after an extremely short deliberation.

“After being cleared, he then returned to Sunderland to resume his football career.

News and Star: Nigel Clibbens says Carlisle will offer ongoing support to Diamond as he resumes his career after being cleared of rapeNigel Clibbens says Carlisle will offer ongoing support to Diamond as he resumes his career after being cleared of rape (Image: Richard Parkes)

“This is now an opportunity for Jack to move forward in his life after an extremely challenging period.  He can now return to football again, and do what he does best.

“We want to emphasise our ongoing support to him now and in the season ahead, as he looks forward to the future with Carlisle United.

“We recognise the judicial process has been followed. Having been subject to the law of the land, tried in front of a jury and acquitted, he is now able to move on.

“We want to help him do that. We believe this is the right thing to do, and that our fans will support this and give Jack their full support too.”

Manager Paul Simpson, meanwhile, spoke of his hope that Diamond will help United on the pitch in their League One relegation battle.

“I’m delighted to get a player of Jack’s ability into the building," said Simpson.

"He’s a player who we hope will come in, create and score goals for us and bring some exciting forward play to the group.

“Jack has had a long period without playing games but his fitness levels are excellent. It will take him a few games to get up to match pace but I’m excited to see him be part of our team.”