Carlisle United defender David Atkinson has joined Blyth Spartans on loan in a move that could pave the way for Alex McQueen to rejoin the Blues.
Atkinson has linked up with the Evo-Stik Northern Premier club until January after failing to force his way into Keith Curle's side this season.
The defender has made just two sub appearances and will get first-team football in his native north-east after an earlier loan move to Darlington fell through.
Curle, meanwhile, is discussing possible short-term deals with both McQueen and fellow trialist Kevin Wright ahead of this weekend's FA Cup clash with Rochdale.
The full-backs have been training with United for several weeks and Atkinson's temporary departure may now free up funds to sign the pair.
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