New arrival Ben Marshall spoke to us this morning as he started the preparation in earnest for the Colchester game tonight.

He said: "I was actually up in Glasgow when I heard about the interest from Carlisle, so it seemed to happen quite quickly. We managed to get it all done though, and that was the important thing.

"There was no hesitation from me at all. As soon as I found out that Carlisle were interested i decided that I wanted to sign. Everyone I spoke to told me about the football they played and about the quality of the players that are here, so I'm looking forward to working with them. I've never played at League One level before so I am over the moon.

"I've had a couple of spells in League Two and I have done well there, so it will be good for me to prove myself at this level as well. I've found out that Greg has been following me for a while so I think this could be a good move for me.

"I enjoyed it with Cheltenham and Northampton. I'm still only young so it's all about experience and getting match time under my belt. I've been trying to get out on loan since I got back to Stoke so this is another chance for me to push on.

"All I can think about at the moment is playing football for Carlisle. It's a different kind of challenge but I am here to prove that I can play at this level and to do my best for the club.

"I like to think that I can play up front or on the wing - whatever the manager needs really. I like both positions and I like to get goals or create them, so I'll do whatever I am asked to do.

"It's not a problem for me that we go straight into a game tonight. Mind you, considering that I'm only 18, I've been through it twice before, so it's nothing new. It's just a case of adapting to it and getting on with the job.

"I honestly can't wait now. The staff and players have already been great with me, and it has a good feel about it. I just want to get going with it now."