Nick Anderton has hailed new Carlisle United signing Josh Grant as a “proper player” and backed his former teammate to shine in the National League this season.
The former Blues captain, who played with Grant at Bristol Rovers, believes the versatile midfielder will make an immediate impact under Mark Hughes.
Anderton: Grant a Fantastic Footballer and a Top Professional
Anderton, who retired from football following a battle with cancer, was full of praise for the 26-year-old, describing him as one of the most intelligent and adaptable players he shared a dressing room with.
“I played with Josh in my season at Rovers and he’s a fantastic, fantastic signing in my opinion,” Anderton told the News & Star. “He’s a very, very intelligent footballer. He came through at Chelsea, and he can play right-back, left-back, centre-half, centre-midfield.”
Grant, who joined Carlisle on a one-year deal after impressing on trial, is seen as a utility asset who can bolster multiple areas of the squad. Anderton believes his tactical awareness and attitude will raise standards within the group.
“Anywhere on the pitch, he could play. He’s a fantastic footballer and a great fella too. He’s a proper, dedicated lad, and as a player he’s very tactically aware. He’s a proper player, proper man – and a real signing.”
Resilience Key to Grant’s Journey
Much of Anderton’s praise centred not just on Grant’s footballing ability, but his character. The midfielder has battled through a string of injury setbacks in recent years, including major knee surgery while at Bristol Rovers, yet continued to fight back to fitness. Last season, he rebuilt his career with 25 appearances and three goals for Wealdstone before landing his move to Brunton Park.
“He’s had a couple of injuries in his time that he’s worked extremely hard to get back from. He had a couple of operations at Rovers during the season when I was ill. I think he’s a real top signing,” Anderton added. “I have no doubt that he’ll excel and make people better around him.”
Grant, who also played for Yeovil Town and Plymouth Argyle earlier in his career, is now tasked with helping Carlisle respond to relegation by spearheading a promotion challenge from the National League.
Writer’s View
Nick Anderton’s words carry weight, especially given the perspective of a player who’s seen football from both its highs and its harshest realities. When a former captain labels a signing as “proper”, it suggests more than just ability—it speaks to mentality, leadership, and professionalism.
Josh Grant’s road back to full fitness hasn’t been easy, but those qualities may now be Carlisle United’s gain. If he stays injury-free, this could prove to be one of the club’s shrewdest pieces of business this summer.
