Joe Garner has explained how former Carlisle United favourite Paul Murray helped attract him to Oldham Athletic.

The two former Blues team-mates are reunited after Garner's move to Boundary Park on Wednesday.

Garner and Murray played alongside each other at United in 2006/07, with Latics academy manager Murray now assisting Oldham boss Micky Mellon at first-team level.

Garner, 35, explained how the Cumbrian played his part in selling him the Oldham challenge.

"There's a positive energy around the place," said Garner.

"I played with Muzza a long time ago, and he couldn't speak highly enough of the place and the fans.

News and Star: Paul Murray and Joe Garner are reunited at OldhamPaul Murray and Joe Garner are reunited at Oldham (Image: Jamie Crossan / Ben Holmes)

"I'm happy to get signed, and looking forward to getting out there and helping the lads."

Garner, who was given a free transfer by United, has signed an 18-month deal with Oldham, who are sixth in the National League.

Speaking to the club's official channels, the striker said Oldham is a "massive club" and one he hopes he can help to promotion.

"They [Mellon and Murray] have just told me to do what I've done for 15-odd years - go out there, try and get a few goals, and hopefully help with a promotion along the way."

Garner is the second striker to leave the permanent United ranks in recent weeks after Ryan Edmondson's move to Central Coast Mariners.

Edmondson has been handed squad number 99 at the Australian A-League club and has been named in the squad for a possible debut against Adelaide United this weekend.

The departures of Edmondson and Garner came ahead of United's bid to bring in a new striker before today's transfer deadline.

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