Former Carlisle United defender Darren Kelly is back in football with a new role in the National League.

He has joined his former club York City as general manager.

Kelly has held similar roles at Hartlepool United and Newport County, where he was sporting director.

He left Newport after 18 months in February and a short-lived spell at Pools came to an end in July.

The ex-Blues man now links up with a club for whom he played from 2007-09.

Speaking in a club interview, Kelly said: "I'm excited.

News and Star: Kelly pictured in action for CarlisleKelly pictured in action for Carlisle (Image: Jonathan Becker)

"I've always watched the club from afar because of my connection with the club.

"I'm really looking forward to the challenges ahead, and hopefully taking the club forward in every way, on and off the pitch."

Kelly, 44, was a £100,000 signing at Carlisle when he joined from Derry City during Roddy Collins' reign in 2002.

He made 54 appearances for the Cumbrians and scored two goals, and was part of the side that reached the 2003 LDV Vans Trophy final.

After the end of his playing days Kelly had managerial spells with Oldham Athletic, FC Halifax Town, Hyde United and Scarborough Athletic.

York sit second bottom of the National League after six games.