Former Bristol City coach explains why he's signed young Robins defender on loan

Carlisle United manager Paul Simpson is delighted to have signed young Bristol City centre-back Duncan Idehen on loan until January after receiving rave reviews of the 20-year-old from Robins staff.

Idehen, who signed a new two-year City contract in May, has moved to Brunton Park until January and is in contention to make his debut against Stevenage in League Two this weekend with former Robins coach Simpson searching for a left-sided player.

City signed Idehen in January following his release by Grimsby Town, and he made his Robins debut towards the end of last season with substitute appearances against Derby County and Huddersfield Town, but has since been moved back to the Under-21 set-up. He notably wasn’t involved in the Young Robins 4-2 win over Hull City on Tuesday, paving the way for his move to the north west.

Simpson left Ashton Gate in October last year which meant he didn’t get the chance to work directly with Idehen but has done his homework into what the defender will bring to the side. Carlisle have started their campaign with a win and two draws.

“Ideally we wanted a left-sided player and Duncan certainly fits that profile,” Simpson said. “I'm looking forward to getting him working with us and to getting him integrated into the group, and I'm sure he's going to be another really good addition to our squad.

"He's a good size, he loves defending and he has a bit of pace about him. He's confident on the ball and I'm delighted that Bristol City have agreed to let him come to us.

"He's had appearances in the Championship and he was part of their squad during pre-season. They've got players back from injury and a decent number of centre-backs, so he's gone back to U23s down there.

"I was aware of him last