Kieren Westwood almost quit the game to join the police

Keiren Westwood has praised former club Carlisle United for resurrecting his career after completing his move to Coventry City this week.

The 23-year-old almost quit the game to join the police force following his release by Manchester City.

"I owe Carlisle a lot," Westwood told BBC Radio Cumbria.

"I was ready to pack it all in when I was released by City but Carlisle gave me a call and it made me hungry to be a success once again."

Westwood, called up to Giovanni Trapattoni's first Republic of Ireland squad last month, completed his �750,000 move to the Ricoh Arena on Wednesday by signing a three-year deal.

I've got some great memories and I can't thank the people at Carlisle enough. Keiren Westwood

It ends a three-year association with Carlisle following his move to Brunton Park in 2005.

"I had a great time at Carlisle," said Westwood. "We won two promotions, a league title, a play-off appearance and a cup final at the Millennium Stadium.

"I've got some great memories and I can't thank the people at Carlisle enough. I've got a great affection for the people up there and the fans were always brilliant to me.

"Now I'm looking forward to a new challenge. They're a massive club looking to get back to the Premier League and I can't wait to get started."