Paul Huntington is proving an invaluable addition to Carlisle United’s side already, says manager Paul Simpson.

The experienced Cumbrian defender has quickly become a fixture in the Blues’ back line.

And after Huntington produced an outstanding display in the victory at Grimsby Town this week, Simpson says the 35-year-old is showing all the qualities he wanted.

“He’s proving to be exactly what I hoped he would be,” United’s boss said ahead of tomorrow’s home clash with Crewe Alexandra.

“That was why I wanted him here from the end of last season – as soon as I found out he was being released by Preston, I wanted him to come in.

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“He’s doing what I wanted, and that’s credit to him the way he goes about it. He leads by example.

“He was like a magnet to the ball the other night – he headed everything, cleared his lines.

“I like the way he plays in that he just keeps it simple. If it needs to go in Row Z he sticks it in row Z. He doesn’t take any chances.”

Huntington, who has made seven appearances so far, appears to be relishing the opportunity to help his home-city club.

And Simpson said the Carlisle-born player’s will to win is a crucial part of his appeal.

“He’s got a real desire to be successful,” Simpson said.

“He didn’t want to come to a club that was just going to be floundering in the league – he wanted somewhere that was going to be a bit of a challenge.

“He’s the same as Tomas Holy – he said that in the summer, he wanted to be somewhere where we have a chance of competing.

“After ten games we are competing, and we’ve got to make sure after 20 we still are. I’m sure people like Paul will help us towards that.”