Gbarssin given his chance at Carlisle United
Jan 1 2011 by Matthew Leslie, The Journal
CARLISLE have made their first move in the January transfer window by signing French midfielder Marc-Antoine Gbarssin.
The 26-year-old who has recently been on trial at Brunton Park has penned a one-month deal. The deal remains subject to international clearance and to the completion of all paperwork, including registration with the Football League and with the FA when the transfer window opens today.
Gbarssin will not be eligible for the home game against Huddersfield Town on Saturday, but he will be at the ground to watch the game.
The Carlisle coaching staff have been impressed with the 26-year old Frenchman, who recently left Danish side FC Fredericia after his short-term contract at the club came to an end.
United manager Greg Abbott said: “Marco has done really well during the last three weeks and he’s one we’ve managed to sneak under everyone’s radar.
“He’s played to a good standard abroad and was recommended to me by a good friend of mine who told me he was worth a look. He’s a really tough, solid but capable player who rarely gives the ball away.
“For the financial package involved, taking into account all the games we have coming up it’s an absolute no-brainer. He’ll give us some extra cover and depth to the squad at a time when we are going to need it.
“This month will show us whether he is capable of kicking on to the next level and if he manages that, he’ll reward himself by earning a longer contract. He’ll only get that though if we think he’s going to make us better and we’ve told him that which he totally understands. We have to give him a chance to adjust to the English game though, but the signs so far are encouraging.”
Marc-Antoine, known as ‘Marco’, revealed how impressed he had been with the club since he began his trial spell in early December.
He said: “I have a few contacts in England who advised me that coming here would be a good move.
“I’d heard a lot of good things about the club and how it likes to play good football. I also know François Zoko from my time in France and Belgium and heard he was really enjoying his time here so I had no hesitation about coming over for a trial.
“The manager has told me I’ve done well during my trial spell and he thinks I can add something extra to the team. It’s up to me to now show that I can do that and I’m really looking forward to being involved in some first-team games as soon as possible.”
