Grimsby sign former Carlisle defender Lavelle

Sam Lavelle played 89 games for Carlisle scoring seven goals

Grimsby Town have signed defender Sam Lavelle on a two-year deal after he left Carlisle United at the end of last season.

Lavelle, 28, spent two years at Brunton Park scoring seven goals in 89 games, after enjoying spells with Morecambe, Charlton Athletic and Bolton Wanderers, having begun his career at Blackburn Rovers.

Mariners manager David Artell said he is "pleased" to welcome Lavelle to Blundell Park.

"Sam is an experienced defender who will provide strong competition for the lads," he said.

"He's been promoted out of this division before with Morecambe and has played in the league above, so we are really pleased he's chosen to join us.

"We welcome him to the club and can't wait to start working with him."

Grimsby finished ninth in League Two last season, two points outside the play-offs.