By Jon Colman

Last updated 09:57, Saturday, 15 November 2008

Teenage loan signing Michael Liddle is ready for the heat of League One battle, according to United caretaker boss Greg Abbott.

Michael Liddle

The 18-year-old left-back yesterday joined the Blues on loan from Sunderland until January 3, and is set for an immediate debut against Brighton today in place of the out-of-sorts Evan Horwood.

Abbott watched Liddle star for the Black Cats’ 2-0 reserve victory against Man City on Wednesday night, and said the Eire Under-21 international would be at home in the Carlisle back four.

“He is quick, has a lovely left foot, has great energy, gets forward well and has a good delivery,” enthused Abbott.

“He has a yard of pace and we have been looking at him for a while now. He set up both Sunderland’s goals on Wednesday and I’m delighted Roy Keane has given us permission to take him.”

If London-born Liddle starts today it will mean Abbott has abandoned the idea of using midfielder Jeff Smith as an emergency left-back.

“I’ve spoken to a number of people about him and they have all said Michael is ready to play some games at this level,” added Abbott.

“Bringing him in allows Evan a bit of time to get his game back and it should benefit all parties.”

Although he is available today, Liddle has not registered in time to be eligible for Carlisle’s FA Cup first round replay at Grays on Tuesday. But he will be free to play against Crewe if United reach the second round.