Ex-Blues: former Carlisle United debutant joins Steve Evans' side

A defender who made his Football League debut for Carlisle United has made a move early in the summer transfer window.

Reece James has become Steve Evans' latest recruit at Rotherham United.

The full-back, who began his first-team career as a Blues loanee in 2013, has become the Millers' fourth signing already since their relegation to League One.

The 30-year-old has linked up with Rotherham for a second spell, having been on loan with the Yorkshire club in 2014/15.

It follows his departure from Sheffield Wednesday.

“Reece James is a naturally left-sided player who can play in a three or a four or even on the left side of midfield or the left side of a diamond," said manager Evans, speaking via the Rotherham Advertiser.

"He was outstanding in League One with Sheffield Wednesday and he is a brilliant addition for us.”

James was with Carlisle at the start of 2013/14 on loan from Manchester United.

But his stint with the Cumbrians was dashed by injuries.

He was restricted to just two appearances, including his Football League debut in that campaign's opening league game, a 5-1 defeat to Leyton Orient.

James also featured in the League Cup 3-3 draw with Blackburn Rovers that August but he was unable to figure again due to injuries, and duly returned to Old Trafford.

Since then, loan moves to Rotherham and Huddersfield Town have followed, before permanent spells at Wigan Athletic, Sunderland, Doncaster Rovers, Blackpool and Sheffield Wednesday.

He joins fellow signings Shaun McWilliams, Joe Rafferty and Jonson Clarke-Harris at the Millers.