In-demand ex-Middlesbrough and Sunderland striker makes transfer decision

EX-Middlesbrough and Sunderland striker Charlie Wyke has returned to former club Carlisle United.

The Teessider, 31, was a free agent this summer after leaving Wigan and was in-demand in the EFL, with Bradford City one of several clubs to have shown an interest.

But he's today signed a two-year deal with Carlisle, who he played for earlier in his career, when he scored 39 goals in 89 appearances.

READ MORE:

• Middlesbrough's 16-month transfer pursuit to sign player who 'keeps stepping up'

• Sunderland confirm signings of ex-Chelsea, Liverpool & Southampton youngsters

Carlisle boss Paul Simpson said: "As you can imagine, I'm absolutely delighted to get Charlie back into the club.

"It's something that has been talked about for a while. We tried to get him to come to us in January but he wanted to stay at the highest level he could and ended up going to the Championship.

"We've been talking on and off during summer, but like all players, Charlie wanted to wait and see what other offers he got. It was clear there were other clubs at a higher level who were keen but he is excited to come back and help take us forward again. We're delighted to have him in with us.

"Everyone can see from his record that he is a proven goal scorer and we're all really looking forward to working with him."

Wyke has had a fine career, playing for Carlisle, Bradford, Sunderland, Wigan and Rotherham since leaving Boro, where he came through the academy ranks.

In November, 2021, when he was at Wigan, Wyke suffered a cardiac arrest during training. His heart stopped beating for four minutes and he was saved by then-Wigan manager Leam Richardson.

In an exclusive interview with the Northern Echo in 2022, he said: "I've always been a chilled out and positive person anyway but now I appreciate every day. I could have had it all wiped away. That would have impacted so many people.

"You take things for granted, we all do, but I've been given another chance and I cherish every day."