Preston forward Ethan Walker has completed his return to Carlisle United on loan.

The 18-year-old has rejoined the Blues on a deal until the end of the season.

Walker, who has trained with Chris Beech's squad today, joins Carlisle for the second time this campaign.

The teenage prospect made five appearances in the early stages of the season before a shoulder injury curtailed his initial spell.

After Walker returned to Deepdale for his recovery, Preston formally recalled the attacker from his season-long loan in order to include him in their matchday squad for their recent FA Cup tie at Wycombe.

The Championship club have now, though, agreed to allow the promising young player to head back up the M6.

Walker further bolsters Chris Beech's attacking ranks as the Blues prepare to return to action after an enfored three-game Covid-related lay-off.

The Preston youngster joins Lewis Alessandra, Joshua Kayode, Omari Patrick, Brennan Dickenson, Offrande Zanzala, Gime Toure and Cedwyn Scott among Beech's forward options.

Walker could come into the reckoning for Tuesday's trip to face fellow high-fliers Newport County.

Beech said earlier this week that he had kept in touch with Walker since his injury-enforced departure from the Blues in the autumn.

The player himself recently said he would be keen to return to Brunton Park if immediate first-team chances at North End were limited.

"Ethan wants to be at Carlisle United and Carlisle want Ethan Walker," Beech said.

“He’s exciting to watch and naturally talented."

Beech said on United's website that the Blues were Preston's "first port of call" once they decided another loan move would benefit Walker.

“Ethan adds another exciting attacking option and this will prove invaluable as we progress through the second half of the season,” the Blues boss added.

“The great benefit of having Ethan back with us is that he’s got the bit between his teeth to kick on and make an impact, especially after his injury.

"It was good to see him with a smile on his face at training today, and we're all looking forward to working with him again.”

Walker's second loan deal is subject to the clearance of paperwork from all parties.