Former Carlisle United midfielder Joe Riley has joined League Two rivals Walsall.

The ex-Manchester United youngster had been offered fresh terms at Brunton Park, but took to social media in May to confirm that he would be moving on.

In a message on Twitter, Riley wrote: "This club gave me an opportunity when no-one else would and for that I'll always be grateful.

"Working with an unbelievable group of players, after two enjoyable seasons my time here has come to an end.

"I have honestly grown to love this club, as has my entire family, which is why this decision was extremely difficult.

READ MORE: Ex-Carlisle and Leeds midfielder joins Annan Athletic

“As an honest person, please don’t believe everything you read on Twitter, even if you think it’s from a credible source.

“Unfortunately, the truth of not being valued as highly as I’d have hoped after 84 games here will never be communicated for you all but it was clear for me to see.

“I wish Carlisle nothing but the best for the future, you fans deserve it.”

And he has now joined the Saddlers on a two-year deal.

Riley made the move to Carlisle in 2020 after a spell with Bradford City and quickly became a key player for the Blues.

READ MORE: Tomas Holy analysis - the key strengths Carlisle fans can expect to see

His versatility proved key as he played at both full-back and in the centre of midfield during his time in Cumbria.

Under Paul Simpson, Riley tended to operate as a right-sided wing-back as part of the preferred 3-5-2 system.

In total, he made 84 appearances for Carlisle and scored five times.

And Walsall head coach Michael Flynn was delighted to see the 25-year-old put pen to paper.

“Joe is an exciting player,” he said, speaking to Walsall's official website.

“He came through at Manchester United and he’s getting better and better.

READ MORE: Fresh interest in Cumbrian keeper Dean Henderson emerges

“He’s at a great age, 25 and I’m really excited to be working with Joe.

“He’s definitely one who can make his mark on Walsall Football Club and on the league next season.”

Walsall say the deal will be officially sanctioned on July 1.