Sources in the North-West are reporting that former Republic of Ireland international left-back Ian Harte is the Carlisle player the Blues are targeting. Earlier, Carlisle boss Greg Abbott revealed that Town had made a loan enquiry for one of his players.

The 32-year-old, who was previously a member of Roy Keane’s squad at Sunderland, started his career with Leeds United, remaining at Elland Road for nine years until 2004 when he moved on to Levante in Spain.

After two years with the Valencia-based club, he joined Keane’s Sunderland in the summer of 2007. After six months at the Stadium of Light the Drogheda-born defender was transfer-listed and left the following summer, having made only three starts and five sub appearances.

After trials with Norwegian side VÃ¥lerenga and Charlton, Harte eventually signed for Blackpool last December, remaining there until March when he joined Carlisle.

A set piece expert, Harte has won 64 Republic of Ireland caps and has scored 11 goals.

Photo: Action Images

ITFCsince67 added 20:50 - Nov 25 Ipswich 1994 and your mate below, i hope your medication will soon wear off. Ian Harte in midfield..............please. Way way past it and was an ok left back about 9 years ago. Leadbitter is our ball winner, we just need a cultured foot in midfield, not Garvin ........too slow. What is this with JR still? scoring in Div 1 is one thing the Champ is another. He never looked like getting anywhere near scoring for the first team last year. Although Wickham has not scored at least he has pace and strength. If you honestly think Hart is the answer then you must pissed, mental or a scummer. Just look at all the comments on the two Hart links, you two must be the only supporters. Or are you Ian Harte and the other poster is mum?

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