Tributes have been paid to former Carlisle United star Alan Shoulder, who has died.

Shoulder, a popular frontman who shone for the Blues in the Second Division in the 1980s, was 71.

Bishop Auckland-born Shoulder was with United from 1982 to 1985 having joined from Newcastle United.

He helped lead Carlisle's attack in their first season back in the second tier in the 1982/83 season under Bob Stokoe.

And he remained a key player in their subsequent two campaigns, including the 1983/84 season when United came close to promotion to the top flight.

Shoulder formed a dangerous attacking unit with fellow north east native Malcolm Poskett as Carlisle, under Stokoe, acclimatised to life back in the second tier.

He scored twice on his debut in a memorable 3-0 opening-day win at Derby County in August 1982 and registered 20 league goals in his debut Blues campaign.

A further eight followed in 1983/84 with Shoulder scoring three more in his final Brunton Park campaign of 1984/85.

Shoulder, left, formed a dangerous attacking combination with Mally Poskett, centre, at Brunton Park in the early to mid-1980s (Image: News & Star)

He was on target in some memorable United victories, including a penalty in a famous festive 3-1 win over Newcastle in December 1983.

Shoulder had initially made his name with non-league Blyth Spartans, scoring 29 goals in 48 appearances including a starring role in Blyth's run to the fifth round of the FA Cup in 1977/78.

He worked as a deputy at Horden pit until he was snapped up by Newcastle in 1978, Shoulder going on to score 38 times in 117 appearances for the Magpies.

The diminutive attacker then hit 33 goals in 122 games for Carlisle before moving on to Hartlepool United and further spells in non-league.

In management and coaching, meanwhile, he had spells in charge of clubs such as Coundon, Crook Town, Bishop Auckland, Willington, West Auckland Town and Blyth Spartans.

He also had a spell as assistant manager of Gretna.

Carlisle said they were "saddened" by the news of his passing and added: "Our best wishes are with his friends and family at this tough time."

Newcastle added: "Alan will be sadly missed and the thoughts of everybody at the club are with his family and friends."

And Blyth Spartans said they were devastated at the loss of their legendary player, adding: "Everyone assiocated with the club extends their heartfelt condolences to Alan’s family, friends and former team mates."