Richardson backs himself to be one of league's best

Carlisle United defender Kenton Richardson is challenging himself to be one of the best defenders in the National League.

Richardson moved to Carlisle in the summer from Gateshead, along with head coach Rob Elliot, but injuries have limited his career in Cumbria so far.

After two substitute appearances in the league, the FA Cup fourth qualifying round win over Tamworth was the 27-year-old's first start for his new club and hopefully the start of a strong run.

"At Gateshead last season, I'll be honest with myself, I wasn't great and we weren't great as a team," he told BBC Radio Cumbria.

"I wasn't at the levels that I've set previously, but the years before that I would back myself to be one of the best defenders in the league and hopefully I can show that here."

Richardson was one of a number of new arrivals at Brunton Park as Carlisle have refreshed their squad, although it has been a sticky start in the league.

With cup progress assured, the league form needs attention and he is keen to get cracking.

"I've had a bit of a frustrating time at the club, picking up a little injury," he added. "When you come here, you want to make a good first impression.

"I've had a couple of cameos away, but you want to make a good impression in front of the fans and for me it was about coming in and trying to drive things and drive the tempo of the game."