TV cameo for Hayden

He played against us in August, has since made a dozen NPL appearances in Workington colours and now Hayden Atkinson can reflect on his senior debut for Carlisle United, making a twenty-minute cameo in Sunday’s FA Cup tie v. Blackpool at Bloomfield Road.

We were all disappointed when the seventeen-years-old defender was recalled by his parent club last week, but shared his delight when he was named in United’s match-day squad for the televised cup tie.

To then see him in action was as pleasing for us as it was for the player and his family.  He certainly acquitted himself well as he took the first big step in his Carlisle United career.

A bright future is predicted for the Cleator Moor youngster and we sincerely hope the obvious potential is fulfilled.

It is only a matter of weeks ago that he represented Carlisle United against Blackpool in the FA Youth Cup, so he completed an unusual double when he took to the field during the second half of the Blues Second Round tie before the huge Cumbrian support.  

Back in August, he played at Borough Park for a young Carlisle United side in a pre-season friendly.  A fortnight later, the talented player was making his Workington debut at Hednesford Town and, since that impressive first outing for us, he has made excellent contributions during a valuable loan stint, be it as a fullback, a central defender or as a midfielder.

Hayden Atkinson and Steven Swinglehurst

He may get further game time in the FA Trophy next week but, meanwhile, we thank him, and his parent club, for his commitment to Workington and hope that his time with us has helped, in some way, towards his development.