Danny Grainger has not ruled out returning for Josh O’Brien in future despite the Carlisle United youngster’s short-lived loan at Workington Reds.

Youth team defender O’Brien joined the west Cumbrians for a work experience spell – but was swiftly recalled by United.

Paul Simpson needed the teenager in his first-team squad, with O’Brien having been on the senior bench twice in recent weeks.

Grainger has since bolstered his Northern Premier League Premier Division back line with other signings but says he remains an admirer of the big 17-year-old.

The Reds boss and former Blues captain said: “It’s one we’ll keep monitoring.

“He came to us and had the game against Guiseley, and then got recalled due to [Carlisle’s] first team needing him.

“At that point  I had to go and recruit as we were short in that area.

News and Star: Danny GraingerDanny Grainger (Image: Ben Challis)

“Camron [Gbadebo] has come in done really well, and Sam Smith coming back from injury means I’m not so short in that area now.

“But Josh is someone I think a lot of – if I do need to go and get someone again, he’s someone I’ll look to try and get.”

O’Brien was promoted to the first-team bench for United’s recent Bristol Street Motors Trophy game against Harrogate Town, along with fellow youth team players Aran Fitzpatrick and Romeo Park.

Fitzpatrick and O’Brien were then among the substitutes for United’s home league game against Charlton Athletic at a time injuries have deprived the Blues of a number of senior players.

Workington, meanwhile, saw their hopes of a first home game in six weeks dashed by the weather on Saturday.

Their home clash with Hyde United fell victim to a frozen pitch following an inspection on the morning of the game.

Grainger’s side will now look to return to action on home soil against Morpeth Town next Saturday.