Former Carlisle United star Richard Keogh is set to face the Blues next week - after joining Championship side Blackpool.

The Seasiders, who visit Brunton Park for a pre-season friendly next Saturday, have handed the defender a one-year deal.

Keogh, who recently left Huddersfield, has been training with Mansfield Town.

But the Stags said that was just to help the 34-year-old keep his fitness up as he remained in negotiations elsewhere.

And his move to newly-promoted Blackpool on an initial 12-month contract has now been confirmed.

Keogh joins fellow ex-Blues Gary Madine and Jerry Yates at Bloomfield Road.

He told the Blackpool website: “Once I had spoken to the manager and the owner, it was quite clear that this was obviously the right place for me.

"We shared a lot of similar values about how the game should be played. and it was really refreshing how they were as people.

“I’m now excited to get to know the lads, give my best and hopefully bring out the best in them as well.”

Boss Neil Critchley, who led Blackpool to play-off success in League One last term, added: “I’m delighted that Richard is joining us. He will bring valuable experience to the group, having played the vast majority of his career in the Championship.

"He’s a good communicator, leader and footballer who can pass on his knowledge to the rest of the group."

Keogh started last season with MK Dons before a move to Huddersfield in January, the Republic of Ireland international making 21 appearances for the Terriers.

He was with United in 2007/8 on loan from Bristol City and then on the permanent books from 2008-10, making 95 appearances in total.

United take on Blackpool in their first home friendly of pre-season next Saturday.