by John Walsh

Last updated 10:05, Saturday, 28 June 2008

WORKINGTON Reds have pulled off a massive coup by signing the experienced former Carlisle United defender and captain Kevin Gray.

The 36-year-old central defender, released by Chesterfield in the summer, is living and working in Carlisle and has opted to play for Reds in Blue Square North.

The tough, no-nonsense defender was a key player for Carlisle in 2006/07 and his experience and committed approach will be a major asset to the west Cumbrians.

Gray, who had approaches from a Conference Premier club and a Football League club, will be meeting his new team-mates at tomorrow's second training session.

Manager Darren Edmondson said: "I have been talking to Kevin for several weeks about joining us and I'm absolutely delighted that he's decided to put pen to paper.

"He's an outstanding professional and will be a massive player for us next season. It's very rewarding that he's opted to join Workington football club."

Gray's previous clubs include Mansfield Town, Huddersfield Town, Stockport County, Tranmere and Carlisle.