WORKINGTON Reds have announced the signing of former Carlisle United academy goalkeeper Alex Mitchell from Blyth Spartans.

The signing for new manager Mark Fell's Reds comes two days after the departure of number-one shot-stopper Jim Atkinson left the club to sign for Gretna 2008.

Mitchell was an Under-18 player at Carlisle and was part of the side that famously knocked Manchester United out of the FA Youth Cup in 2008, and now returns to Borough Park after two previous spells with the Reds. 

The goalkeeper has also played for Gretna, Queen of the South and, Annan Athletic. 

After his return to Workington Reds was confirmed, boss Mark Fell was on hand to express his delight. 

Speaking on the club's website, he said:  "I'm delighted to have Alex on board. With him and Danny [Eccles] we have two outstanding keepers at the club to push each other and make sure they’re both in the best of form.

"Alex has great experience in the League above and he’s an all-round excellent keeper.

"Just as important is the character we are getting. He’s professional in his approach, great to have him around the club and one who will drive high standards."

Mitchell also discussed his return to the Reds and explained how new boss Fell played a key role in the move.

He said: "The whole thing came out of the blue really and once I spoke to the gaffer I was sold and we managed to move quickly to get the deal done.

"I normally set myself a target of ten League clean sheets a season which result in us having a good chance of making the play-offs."