Out-of-favour Carlisle United striker Richie Bennett has joined Morecambe on loan until the end of the season.

The big striker has linked up with the Shrimps, who are fourth bottom in League Two.

Bennett has struggled for starts at Brunton Park in recent months and the Blues recently said he had asked for first-team opportunities elsewhere.

He now joins Jim Bentley's side in a move which could make room for United to make additions.

Carlisle did not comment on the level of Morecambe's contribution towards Bennett's wages.

United had said, though, that any move for Bennett would only be sanctioned if it benefited all parties.

His departure is the first piece of business at the club since the arrival of new manager Steven Pressley.

Bennett has made 16 starts and 10 sub appearances this campaign, scoring four goals.

The 27-year-old last started a league game in October.

The striker, a £50,000 arrival from Barrow in summer 2017, scored eight goals in 47 outings under Keith Curle in his first campaign at Football League level.

Both Bennett and midfielder Mike Jones were made available for moves at the end of December after finding themselves out of the starting line-up for a period.

Carlisle also said they would allow defender Gary Miller and George Glendon to find new clubs.

United are hoping to bolster their ranks before Saturday's clash with Cheltenham and are chasing three targets in attacking and wide positions.

On Bennett, Shrimps boss Bentley said on the Morecambe website: "Richie is a player we have liked for a few years.

“We watched him at Northwich a few years ago and followed his progress from Barrow to Carlisle.

“He did really well at Barrow and whenever he has played against us for Carlisle has been a threat.

“He’s a good size, works hard and is good in the air. He ticks a lot of boxes for us and we look forward to working with him.’’

The move could mark the end of Bennett's time in a United shirt as he is out of contract at the end of the campaign.

He is available to play for Morecambe against Stevenage on Saturday.