Veteran Sunderland midfielder Graham Kavanagh has joined Carlisle on a one-month loan.

The 35-year-old has fallen out of favour at the Stadium of Light and is yet to make an appearance this term.

But with Carlisle`s Paul Thirlwell and Chris Lumsdon sidelined by injury, United boss John Ward believes the former Republic of Ireland international`s experience will help the Cumbrians.

He told the club`s official site: "Graham is a very good player and he also comes with experience and knowledge.

"He can help us on the pitch with the way that he can play the game and he can also bring that experience into it as well. Having those qualities is going to be very helpful to me, the team and to the football club in general."

Kavanagh will go straight into the squad for the early kick-off at MK Dons on Saturday.