Sunderland's Liam Noble returns to Carlisle on loan

Noble began his first loan spell at Carlisle in January

Sunderland midfielder Liam Noble will return to Carlisle United for a second loan spell after signing a six-month deal at Brunton Park.

The 20-year-old made 24 appearances on loan at Carlisle last season, scoring three goals for the club.

Carlisle boss Greg Abbott said: "We know all about Liam now and we're delighted that he is coming back to us.

"Hopefully he'll reproduce the form that we were starting to see from him last season."

Abbott continued: "He has a few rough edges. But we think he could go on to be a very good player.

"Sunderland have been fantastic with the way they have dealt with this one and I'd like to thank Steve Bruce and the staff over there.

"He's a confident lad and he has ability and enthusiasm, and we think he's an excellent addition to the squad."

Noble stated his career as a trainee with Sunderland, rising through the academy to sign his first professional contract last summer.