Taylor joined Carlisle from Scunthorpe in January 2008

Carlisle United winger Cleveland Taylor has handed in a transfer request, citing personal reasons.

Taylor, 25, won five of the club's player of the year awards, including the vote from his fellow players, in his second season at Brunton Park.

United manager Greg Abbott told the club's website: "It came as a big shock for me.

"It is for personal reasons and Cleveland has asked for them to remain private just for the moment."

Taylor joined the Cumbrians in January 2008 in a £75,000 move from Scunthorpe United, where he spent four seasons.

We have all agreed not to discuss his reasons any further and I think it is only right and proper we respect that Greg Abbott

"I was very, very reluctant to agree to the request because people know how highly I rate Cleveland," said Abbott.

"I've explained on numerous occasions the positive effect that he has on the dressing room because he has that positive enthusiasm for the game and he is a terrific character.

"I understand the reasons he has for making the request but I do feel that it should be up to Cleveland to when he chooses to discuss it, if he chooses to do so at all."

The former Jamaica Under-20 and Under-23 international began his career as a trainee with Bolton Wanderers and spent loan spells with Exeter City, Scarborough and Scunthorpe United before making his stay at Glanford Park a permanent one in March 2004.

He made 121 starts for the Iron and was a regular in their promotion-winning 2006/07 season.

Taylor, who was described as "an inspiration" by Abbott, has made 46 appearances for Carlisle this season, scoring twice.

"When he is good and ready I would hope that he would feel that he is in a position to explain the reasons behind his decision," added Abbott.

"But he would prefer it to remain private at the moment.

"At his request, we have all agreed not to discuss his reasons any further and I think it is only right and proper we respect that."

Carlisle managing director John Nixon said: "We will circulate his name around the other clubs in the Football League and make them aware that he is available.

"Obviously we paid a fee to secure his services, so we would be looking to recoup that before we can allow him to move on."

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