Gavin Skelton has joined Carlisle United as an academy coach.

The former Workington Reds and Queen of the South manager has linked up with the Blues in Darren Edmondson's under-18 set-up.

Skelton, 36, has been appointed professional development phase coach.

The Cumbrian - who started his playing career as a home-grown Carlisle player - will work alongside academy manager Edmondson.

Skelton had ended last season as a player with Annan Athletic after his departure from Queens last November.

His arrival sees long-serving youth coach David Wilkes step up into a new position of head of academy coaching.

Skelton, from Kirkby Thore near Penrith, started work at Brunton Park this week.

In a club statement, Edmondson said: "I think this is a great signing for the Academy.

"He [Skelton] is someone who came through the youth system at this club and that gives him an insight into how it runs.

"He knows the importance of finding young talent for this football club.

“He understands the ethos of the place and he knows us inside out. He’s also a professional in his personal approach as well as on the football field.

"I’ve worked with him before, and I’ve watched him work since then, and I’m delighted with the appointment."

Skelton added: “I’m really pleased to get the opportunity and pleased to be at this club and getting started on a new challenge.

"One thing you want to do as a coach is develop young players and that’s where I really believe my skill set is.

"It’s also a good opportunity to develop myself as a coach as I get to work with some really talented youngsters. Hopefully I’ll be giving them every opportunity to make a career in the game, because that’s what this role is all about."

Wilkes' new role will see him oversee all aspects of coaching at the club from under-8 to under-21 level.

United's academy has category three status under the Elite Player Performance Plan.