Neal ready for Carlisle challenge

Neal had a six-game spell on loan at League Two side Notts County

New Carlisle United signing Lewis Neal has said he is hoping to earn a longer deal with the club, after signing a six-month contract at Brunton Park.

Neal, 27, joined the Cumbrians after agreeing a termination package with Preston North End last week.

"It gives me a chance to prove to the manager that I'm worth another contract in the summer." the winger told BBC Radio Cumbria.

"It works for both parties so I'm just looking forward to it."

Leicester-born Neal began his career with Stoke City, where he made over 80 appearances.

After moving from the Britannia Stadium to Deepdale in the summer of 2005, he made 73 appearances and scored five goals for Preston.

Speaking about his opportunity at Carlisle he added: "I've just go to be patient now, wait for my chance to come along and grab it with both hands."

Neal also spent a six-game spell on-loan at Notts County earlier this season.

"It was good and I got some games in," Neal said. "For financial reasons they couldn't extend it any further but it wasn't a bad experience at all and it was good to play some games."

The Cumbrians beat off interest from two other clubs for the left-sided player, who admitted he was ready to leave Deepdale.

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"It's a chance for me to come and get some games and it isn't too far away from my home," he added.

"Don't get me wrong, I had a good couple of seasons there but I've not featured this season and it has been frustrating.

"I did enjoy my time there but, as players, we all have to move on at some time and it was my time to move on."

Neal was set to play some part in Carlisle's home game with Hereford United on Tuesday night before it was postponed.

"I've not played a lot of competitive football recently but I've been training every day so I'm ready for action," he added.