Gowling has moved to Carlisle on a two-year deal (Getty Images)

Carlisle United manager John Ward believes new signing Josh Gowling can add versatility to his squad.

The 24-year-old central defender has signed a two-year deal at Brunton Park and joins on a free transfer from Bournemouth under the Bosman ruling.

"Josh has been playing consistently well for Bournemouth," Ward told the club's official website.

"He has the flexibility to play at full-back if we need it and that's good for us to have in the squad."

The 6ft 3in defender began his career with West Bromwich Albion but was released by the club and joined Danish side Herfolge BK in 2004.

After eight appearances in Denmark, the Coventry-born player joined Bournemouth on trial, after which he signed a permanent deal.

He's a very good young player who can only get better John Ward

Gowling made 43 appearances for the Cherries last season and played against Carlisle on the final day of the season in a game that saw Kevin Bond's team relegated to League Two.

He turned down the offer of a new contract in the summer and also held talks with Walsall about a possible move back to the West Midlands.

"He's a very good young player who can only get better," Ward said.

"Having spoken to Josh I got the feeling almost immediately that he wanted to come up here and compete. He knows that it will be tough for him to break into the side but, by signing him, we are making our squad that much stronger."