Forward in on one month loan
Carlisle United Football Club have today signed Aston Villa forward Michael Drennan on a one-month youth loan deal which keeps him at Brunton Park until 18 February 2014.
Drennan, 19, came through the youth ranks at Villa Park and has represented the Republic of Ireland at all levels up to U19.
“He's been on our radar for a while," manager Graham Kavanagh said. "I've watched him play twice and he's a centre forward who knows where the goal is.
"He had a metatarsal injury last season so he's working his way back up to full fitness now. He's looking for an opportunity to show what he can do and we're happy to give it to him. Hopefully he'll get us some goals."
"The key for any player we bring in is that he wants to be here and you can tell that Michael is hungry to play," he continued. "He wants first team football but I wouldn't give that to somebody easily.
"I've spoken to him this morning and he seems like a good man. He's happy to take orders and he understands the importance of what's happening. Some young lads coming from Premier League teams don't really know what to expect but he told me he's done his homework.
"He's been to a few League One games to see what it's like and that's very pleasing to hear. He knows it isn't the same as under 21 football and he's here in a good frame of mind."
"I don't think we'll have any more in today but we're hoping to sort something out next week," he said. "We're doing all the work we can and this is a start. Hopefully we can get some more quality in. We know we need options at the top of the pitch to get us some goals so we'll keep working on it."
Drennan will wear squad number 31.