Toby Mullarkey has spoken of his excitement after completing his move to Carlisle United on a six-month loan deal from Fleetwood Town.
The experienced centre-back arrives at Brunton Park having previously worked with Head Coach Rob Elliot, with that relationship playing a key role in his decision to join the Blues.
Having come through the academies at Crewe Alexandra and Everton, Mullarkey has built a wealth of experience across the football pyramid, with spells at Nantwich Town, Altrincham, Rochdale, Grimsby Town and Crawley Town.
After completing his move, Mullarkey admitted he was delighted to have the deal finalised.
He said: "Yeah, delighted. Thankfully, got it all done and over the line. Having worked with the gaffer previously, as soon as I heard about it, it was something I wanted to get done.
"Knowing the size of the club here and what the aspirations are, it seemed like the perfect fit."
The defender revealed discussions began soon after the end of last season before the move was eventually completed.
He added: "I probably heard about it late May, early June, so it has taken a little bit longer than normal, but now that we've got it done and over the line, it's just time to get cracking."
Mullarkey believes the move provides the perfect opportunity for a fresh challenge and regular football.
He explained: "I just wanted that new challenge. It wasn't the greatest of seasons last year in terms of how many games I've played, so for me it's about coming in and trying to play as much football as I can.
"Having worked with the gaffer previously, I know what he's like as a person and as a manager, so it just seemed like the perfect fit."
Reflecting on his journey so far, Mullarkey highlighted the impact of Crewe Alexandra, Everton and Altrincham in shaping his career.
He said: "Crewe was where I essentially got taught about football properly, playing technical football, which is why I class myself as a ball-playing centre-half.
"Then Altrincham was where I fully found my feet. I'll always be indebted to them because they reignited that spark for me and my love for football."
The defender also praised the influence of Phil Parkinson and Neil Sorvel during his time at Altrincham.
He said: "They were both really good with me in terms of teaching me how to play football properly, but also the men's side of it and the winning edge that you need."
After stepping back into the Football League with Rochdale, Mullarkey embraced the challenge of proving himself again at a higher level.
He explained: "I felt like I was playing with a bit of a chip on my shoulder because I'd worked so hard to get into the league.
"When I was finally there, it was about taking the chance and taking the opportunity."
Mullarkey’s previous relationship with Rob Elliot was another key factor behind his move, with the defender praising the Carlisle Head Coach’s approach.
He said: "He's a gaffer that understands you as a person rather than just a player. He sees people as people first and then the player comes next.
"He understands how people work and how he can get the best out of them."
Having taken part in pre-season with Fleetwood Town, Toby feels ready to make an immediate impact at Brunton Park.
He revealed: "I've played every minute, so I feel like I've almost had that full pre-season. Now I'm in a position to come in and hit the ground running."
The 29-year-old believes his experience can help the Blues both on and off the pitch.
He explained: "I'm someone that can lead, not necessarily through being vocal, but through my performances and actions.
"I'm a ball player at centre-half, but I've also learnt the art of defending in non-league. Hopefully I can help the young lads through and bring what I can on and off the pitch."
With plenty of National League experience, Mullarkey knows the demands of the division but is excited by Carlisle’s ambitions.
He added: "It's probably the toughest league that I've played in compared to League Two and League One.
"For me, it's about being the best version of myself on and off the pitch and helping the lads achieve the goal we've set out to do."
Mullarkey is also looking forward to being part of a club expected to compete at the top end of the table.
He explained: "That's one of the main reasons why I wanted to be here. To join a team that's expected to be up there and winning is something I'm looking forward to."
Looking ahead, the defender is focused on settling in quickly and helping Carlisle achieve their targets.
He said: "Initially, it's about meeting the lads and settling in, but I want to hit the ground running, stay fit, stay consistent and help us as a group achieve what we set out to do."
