Released former Carlisle United striker Richie Bennett has signed for their rivals Port Vale.

The big frontman has agreed a two-year deal at Vale Park.

His arrival was confirmed by the Valiants today and sees Bennett remain in League Two.

The ex-Barrow player, 28, was released by the Blues in the summer after a loan spell with Morecambe.

He will now come up against the Cumbrians in the 2019/20 campaign, when United face Vale on November 16 (away) and April 4 (home).

Vale manager John Askey believes Bennett will be a good addition.

"He can score goals and he's a good player," Askey said on Vale's website.

"You can see that during his time at Morecambe he did really well and had a big impact in terms of their survival in the league. Hopefully he can have the same positive impact for us.

"We're also looking at Richie to take the pressure off Popey [Tom Pope] and provide good competition for him."

Bennett made 73 appearances in two campaigns at Carlisle following a £50,000 move from Barrow. He scored 12 goals for the Blues.