Carlisle United midfielder Taylor Charters has extended his loan spell with Gateshead until the end of the season.

The young west Cumbrian initially joined the National League North side for a month.

He made six appearances and scored one in that spell - and has now agreed to remain in the north east for the rest of the campaign.

United have a recall clause in the extended deal.

Gateshead boss Mike Williamson has given Maryport midfielder Charters glowing praise.

Speaking on the Heed website, he said: "Taylor's character and work ethic has been brilliant since he's been with us.

"He's a young lad who has a willingness to work on his game and improve, which is what we expect from all the young lads.

"Extending his loan keeps the competition for starting places in the group high, and we're delighted to have him."

Charters has been on the bench in recent Gateshead games. They face Spennymoor Town today.

United boss Keith Millen recently said he was happy for Charters to remain out on loan at a time other midfielders were ahead of him in the queue for first-team places at Carlisle.

The 20-year-old academy product has made 38 first-team appearances for the Blues so far, scoring once.

Millen said on United's website today: "We’ve looked at the situation and Taylor has been getting game time. He hasn’t had as much recently, but the manager has assured him that he’ll get more time on the pitch in the future.

"He’s scored a goal and he’s happy to be there, so we’re happy as a club that he’s involved around a team who are doing well.

"They’re top of their league so it’s a good experience for him, and it’s good for us and him if he comes back with more experience under his belt.

"Now that his initial 28 days is done, it means we’ve got a recall if we need him due to injuries, or if he isn’t getting enough game time.

"The main thing is that he’s enjoying his time there. He’s got to wait for his chance then do well when he gets it and keep his place.”