United midfielder Luke Joyce will join Andy Preece at Blue Square Premier side Northwich Victoria next week on a one-month loan deal.

Joyce, 21, has made nine appearances for the Cumbrians this season but has not featured for the Blues since their 3-0 defeat at Stockport in November.

Former Carlisle hero Preece enquired about the availability of Joyce following the 2-1 victory at Crewe on Tuesday night when he cast aside his BBC Radio Cumbria commentary duties to speak to manager Greg Abbott about the possible move.

Abbott said: "Luke would actually have joined them today, ahead of their home game against Stevenage on Saturday, but he picked up a knock to the top of his foot in training yesterday.

"What we will do now is wait until the bruising goes down, and he will then be able to join Andy at Northwich. Again, it's one of those moves that helps all parties concerned as it gives Luke some first team football whilst assisting Andy Preece with the difficult job that he has on his hands at the moment."