Former Carlisle United favourite Zigor Aranalde's latest coaching role has taken him to Qatar.

The ex-Blues defender is now assisting boss Javi Gracia at Al Sadd Sports Club.

Aranalde followed head coach Gracia to Doha having worked with the Spanish boss at Valencia and Watford.

The Basque star, 49, joined Al Sadd after Gracia was chosen to succeed Barcelona-bound Xavi at the Qatar outfit.

Al Sadd are the Qatari champions, having won the Qatar Stars League title in the last two seasons.

Their squad includes Spanish former Arsenal star Santi Cazorla and ex-West Ham United and Swansea City attacker Andre Ayew.

News and Star: Aranalde made 126 appearances for the Blues from 2005-8 (photo; Jonathan Becker)Aranalde made 126 appearances for the Blues from 2005-8 (photo; Jonathan Becker)

Aranalde's coaching career also saw a position with Albacete, following a previous scouting role with Brighton & Hove Albion.

The former left-back was a favourite at Brunton Park over three campaigns and was a key member of Paul Simpson's 2005/6 team that won the League Two title.

He went on to feature in the next two seasons in League One under Neil McDonald and John Ward.

The former Walsall and Sheffield Wednesday player made 126 appearances for the Cumbrians and scored seven goals.