Jon Mellish says he had no hesitation in signing a new deal at Carlisle United because of how happy he is at Brunton Park.

The midfielder last night signed a new two-year contract keeping him at the club until the summer of 2023.

It is further reward for Mellish’s goalscoring performances in a blue shirt over the past 12 months.

And the 24-year-old said he was keen to put pen to paper when approached about the new deal.

“It’s all been done quite quickly,” he said.

“I had a chat with David Holdsworth [director of football] at the end of last week, and straight away I was happy and I wanted to get it done.

“I’m happy here. I was told about it on the Friday on the way to Sutton and by Sunday it was all done and signed.

“It was a surprise, to be honest. I still had my option for next year [in my existing deal], so it felt more about getting through this season and seeing what happens.

“When I had that chat last week it felt good. I was surprised but straight away I wanted to sign it. 

“It’s really nice to know that I’m being backed by everyone and that I have a future here.”

Mellish has hit 18 goals in less than a year having been switched from defence to midfield by boss Chris Beech.

His exploits have attracted interest from elsewhere and also led to media attention for the ex-Gateshead and Sunderland academy player.

He said: “People talk, and there’s interest and all that, but my main focus has been on being here and having a future here. With everything outside of football too it just feels right to be here. 

“I couldn’t be more thankful for all the backing I get from everyone behind the scenes, at the top, the gaffer, Gav [Skelton], everyone, for putting belief into me and backing me. Hopefully I can repay it on the pitch.”

Mellish admitted his career at United was “drifting a bit” at the point when he was moved into midfield.

“I was kind of stuck and about to be released,” he said. “To then have a second chance…I’m just very thankful to the club, the gaffer and everybody for believing in me.

“I want to keep doing it and progressing and bringing my game on.”

Mellish hit 16 last season and, with two to his name this term against Salford and Crawley, wants to hit double figures again.

“That’s what I want to do every season when I’m playing midfield now,” he said.

“That’s what you’ve got to look to achieve and hopefully I can do it again or go close.”

Mellish has also spoken of his energetic playing style which he says he will continue to try and help the Blues.

“I think that’s part of why I was put into the position because I love to run,” he said.

“I can’t help myself but do that because I want to cover as much ground for the team as I can.

“It’s about being in people’s faces and making it harder for them, and if that’s what the gaffer asks me to do, I’ll do it.”

Mellish, who has been with United since 2019, has also spoken of the way he responds to the criticism he receives from some fans.

“It is hard but you’ve just got to take it,” he said.

“You can’t please everyone, and the way I play maybe isn’t going to please everyone, because it maybe isn’t appealing on the eye, but I like to think I do all the dirty work and people can appreciate it.

“You do get your comments against you but it doesn’t affect you, you’ve just got to get on with it.”

Mellish has been interviewed by national newspapers and radio stations in recent weeks.

He said of the attention: “It’s a bit weird to be fair. I don’t think I will ever get used to it. I’m not the best at it but you’ve got to do it. It’s nice to get that recognition and you can tell you’re doing well.”