Veteran striker Derek Asamoah has been released by Carlisle United.

The Blues have decided against offering the 35-year-old a new deal after his latest short-term contract expired.

It brings to an end Asamoah's second spell with the Cumbrians after he rejoined the club in October.

He made 11 appearances without scoring this campaign, his last coming as a substitute against Morecambe in Saturday's 1-1 draw.

Manager Keith Curle told United's website: “He’s at an age where he needs to be playing football and, with the players we have here now, I couldn’t guarantee him the pitch time he wanted.

"Hopefully he will go on to find that because he still has a lot to offer.

“He leaves here with our very best wishes.”

Asamoah's departure may enable Curle to target new attacking options before the end of the transfer window.

The Ghanaian said last October that he had considered retiring before Curle offered him the chance to resurrect his career back at Brunton Park.

He enjoyed a memorable first spell with the Cumbrians, making 79 appearances and scoring 13 goals.

That included an unforgettable equaliser in front of the Kop in Carlisle's Capital One Cup draw against Liverpool last season.