Former Carlisle United striker Ryan Loft will be facing the Blues in the first month of the season after joining one of their League Two rivals.

The ex-United loan striker has signed a two-year deal with Scunthorpe.

The Iron will be United's third opponents of the new league campaign when they host Chris Beech's side on September 26.

Loft was on loan at Carlisle from Leicester last season, scoring six goals in 35 appearances, before leaving the Premier League club permanently this summer.

Scunthorpe boss Neil Cox said he was pleased to have captured the big frontman.

Speaking on the club's website, he said: "Ryan's a big centre forward who we've signed to come here and score goals.

"He puts himself about. We've brought him here to lead the line but he's better than just a targetman. He wants to get in the box, score goals, bring people into play and has pace that can get him down the side of teams too.

"He's someone I've watched for a while now and have done a lot of homework on him. I've watched a lot of clips and seen a lot of games, so when he came available he was one I was very keen to get over the line."

One of Loft's goals for Carlisle last season came against Scunthorpe in the Blues' 1-0 win at Glanford Park.

The 22-year-old said: "It's been uncertain times over the last few months, but now it's time to really knuckle down, be committed and give everything I can for the team.

"I know Fela [Olufela Olomola] already, which is good to settle the nerves. I was with him at Carlisle last season, used to live down the road from him while there, and have basically played against him my whole life, really, from his Southampton days.

"I want to make a big impact for the team and add goals, work hard and be very competitive for us. Hopefully that can help bring good times ahead."