By John Colman

Last updated 12:58, Saturday, 11 October 2008

Midfielder Graham Kavanagh will today be asked to inspire Carlisle United to a much-needed victory in front of the Sky cameras after joining the Blues on loan.

Graham Kavanagh

Eire international Kavanagh, pictured, has linked up with John Ward’s squad for a month from Sunderland and goes straight into the side for today’s televised clash at MK Dons (stadium:mk, 12.15pm).

The 34-year-old former Cardiff and Stoke favourite will replace crocked skipper Paul Thirlwell in the United midfield as they aim to end their miserable run of four straight League One defeats.

Manager Ward said: “Graham will be in the team to play MK Dons – that is what he has come for.

“He is a good player first and foremost, and his experience is a bonus.

“He lifted the place as soon as he came in for training on Friday and he has already shown how much he wants to win, even in the six-a-sides.

“He will be a big asset to Carlisle United - a really good signing.”

Ward approached Black Cats boss Roy Keane about Kavanagh’s availability after watching him score the winner for Sunderland’s reserves against Hull.

The Blues boss thrashed out the deal on Thursday night and said the new signing is desperate to help turn around United’s season, starting with today’s early kick-off against Roberto Di Matteo’s side.

“He’s a player you don’t need to watch to know how good he is, but we have seen him twice all the same and been very impressed,” added Ward.

“I spoke to him at length on Thursday and the first thing he asked was ‘How quickly can we do it?’ He was keen to get up here and play, and everything else was secondary. He is a good passer of the ball and a calm player in possession. If we have been getting a bit over-excited in that department recently, Graham will be a big help to us.

“He is in excellent shape and he has been welcomed by the players - there is massive respect among the squad for him, and that gives me a lift as well.”

Ward confirmed that Danny Livesey will replace Thirlwell as skipper but described Kavanagh as “a leader” who will exert huge influence on the side.

Kavanagh, a set-piece expert, has made over 500 career appearances although has yet to make a first-team outing this term. The 16-cap Eire international spent the closing months of last season on loan at Sheffield Wednesday.

Grant Smith, Luke Joyce and Marc Bridge-Wilkinson are battling for the right to partner Kavanagh in the Blues’ engine room today.