Anthony Gerrard has signed a deal that will keep him at Carlisle United until the end of the season.

The influential defender, whose initial terms were due to expire tomorrow, has now committed to the managerless Cumbrians until the summer.

The news will come as a big boost to United and their fans with Gerrard having played a key role in their impressive recent form.

It keeps the 32-year-old on board for what the Blues hope will be a promotion push in the coming months.

The news also dashes any possibility of Gerrard leaving this month to Chesterfield, who are set to confirm ex-United boss John Sheridan as their new manager tomorrow.

Carlisle's director of football David Holdsworth said it was "good news" that Gerrard had signed his new and improved terms.

"He's committed here, a character, and he's happy to be here," Holdsworth said.

"We asked him to get in at 9.30am to conclude the deal and I think he was here about 8.30am sitting outside waiting.

"We're very happy he has agreed to stay here.

"We haven't over-committed in terms of the length of contract. We will evaluate things again in the summer.

"As long as he remains as fit as he is, we'll keep him on board."

Holdsworth would not be drawn on any potential interest in Gerrard from Chesterfield or elsewhere when asked by the News & Star.

The director of football simply said he was always confident of keeping the ex-Huddersfield and Oldham man.

Holdsworth added: "He’s a good character, good in the dressing room and his signature should please supporters, and show them that we’ve reacted very quickly.

"We’re pleased the big fella’s staying."

Holdsworth also stressed that United had supported Gerrard through the recent Football Association enquiry into posts in an Oldham players' WhatsApp group which saw the centre-half receive a written warning and asked to attend an education course.

Oldham subsequently hit out at the lack of more serious punishment and accused Gerrard of "racist behaviour", the defender now involved in a legal process against the Latics.

Holdsworth said: “We supported Anthony through those instances. He’s a character, he landed himself in a little bit of bother, but we’ve supported him and done things absolutely professionally right.

"He knows he’s got a home here and people like him, players like him.

"It does bring an edge but I think that’s a good thing on the pitch.

"We are looking for leaders. The fact he’s bought into us is a really good thing.”

Gerrard has made 27 appearances since joining the Blues in August and has impressed in their run of six straight wins which has put them fifth in the League Two table.

Holdsworth, meanwhile, says United are still "very hopeful" of bringing former loan forward Jerry Yates back to United.

He said the club had made enquiries about other players and were not giving up on the possibility of a deal for Ashley Nadesan, depending on what other offers Fleetwood receive and which the striker may consider this month.