Carlisle rocked as Cleveland Taylor is listed

Jun 4 2009 by Mark Douglas, The Journal

CARLISLE United’s summer rebuilding plans have been dealt a second major blow in less than a week after highly-rated attacking midfielder Cleveland Taylor asked to be transfer-listed.

The Cumbrians have reluctantly agreed to his request, which was made for undisclosed ‘personal reasons’, and are looking to recoup in excess of the £75,000 they paid for the 25-year-old.

In 18 months since leaving Scunthorpe United, the midfielder has made 65 appearances – and a return to the Iron is one possible option for the winger.

Taylor’s shock request comes just days after Danny Graham left the club to try and secure a move to the Championship.

It leaves a disappointed Greg Abbott looking for replacements for two men that would have played key roles in the team that he hopes will improve dramatically on last season’s hugely disappointing campaign.

Abbott has spoken of his desire to find the ‘right characters’ to take the Cumbrians forward and regarded Taylor as one of those with the necessary drive and determination to get the club back on the right track.

“I think it probably goes without saying that it came as a big shock to me when he handed the request in,” said the Carlisle manager.

“However, it is for personal reasons and Cleveland has asked that those reasons remain private just for the moment.

“I was very, very reluctant to agree to the request, because people know how highly I regard Cleveland.