Where Does Alex Gilliead Fit In Under Mark Hughes?

Last night, Carlisle United announced the signing of 29-year-old midfielder Alex Gilliead on loan from Shrewsbury Town.

This is his second spell with the Cumbrians ten years after the first. The midfielder has had spells with Bradford, Scunthorpe, and most recently Shrewsbury since his first spell at Brunton Park.

Today I’m going to look at where Gilliead fits in under Mark Hughes and whether or not there are still positions that need strengthening.

Where Does Gilliead Fit In?

Gilliead is a midfield that will work tirelessly, he will do his defensive duties but mainly he will progress with the ball, carry the ball forward and be good in transition when Carlisle attack.

He can play some key passes in the final third and keep the ball ticking over in the middle of the pitch. The midfielder also has an eye for goal and won’t be shy to shoot if the chance presents itself.

Gilliead is versatile and can play in the centre or can play on either wing and with the games coming thick and fast in the National League versatile players are worth their weight in gold.

I think we will see Alex Gilliead battle with Callum Whelan and Ethan Robson for that “number eight” spot, he can play further forward as well and battle Stephen Wearne and Elliot Embleton for the “number ten” spot as well.

Do Carlisle United Need More Additions?

Personally I would like to see an experienced holding muffler brought it because Harvey Macadam isn’t a player that can just sit and dictate games, Jack Ellis is still learning to play there and will be exposed against good teams and Josh Grant hasn’t impressed so far since he joined in the summer.

I still think maybe another central defender for cover until Morgan Feeney is fully fit wouldn’t be a bad idea, Paul Huntington is a free agent and would do a job short term in my opinion.

Do you think Mark Hughes still needs more players through the door? Please let us know in the comments.

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