Carlisle United have completed the loan signing of goalkeeper Marcus Dewhurst until the end of the season from Premier League side Sheffield United. 

The 18-year-old had spent the first half of this season on loan at National League North side Guiseley, but has now been recalled by the Blades to be sent straight back out to Carlisle.

Dewhurst spent pre-season with Chris Wilder's men and has represented England at under-17 and under-18 level, after converting from a striker to a goalkeeper.

The signing bolsters United's goalkeeping department, with Dewhurst providing Adam Collin and Louis Gray with some cover for the spot between the sticks.

On the latest acquisition, manager Chris Beech told the club's media channels that: "We thought it was important to bring in a goalkeeper before the end of the window to cover us for any potential injuries. We didn't want to be left short, and we're also bringing in a goalkeeper who is very ambitious.

"It will be good for him to be around a professional first-team environment, and to be pushing for a place in the squad every week," continued Beech. "He's played a lot of games at non-league level already, so this is the natural next step for him."

"I've spoken to the FA staff as well as players who have played with him at international level and he is a very highly thought of young goalkeeper," added Beech.

Dewhurst becomes United's seventh signing of the January window, as Chris Beech looks to steer his mean clear of a League Two relegation battle.

The Verdict

This is a very sensible signing for Carlisle with Dewhurst likely to provide admirable cover should injuries or suspension befall either Adam Collin or Louis Gray in the Carlisle goal.

The 18-year-old is clearly very hotly rated by his parent club and the England set up, and after making a number of appearances at non league level, it will be good for his development to be around a first team, professional set up.

United have certainly had a very productive transfer window so far, with the stopper becoming their seventh signing this window.

Manager Chris Beech will be be hoping the new faces can all play some part in helping the club retain their League Two status, with the club now 10 points clear of the League Two relegation zone.