The former Republic of Ireland international has joined up with John Ward's side for a month and goes straight into the United squad for their League One tie at MK Dons tomorrow.

Kavanagh, who scored in Sunderland's reserves' 2-1 win at home to Hull on Wednesday night, could play six games for the Cumbrians during his month-long stay.

The 34-year-old joins former Sunderland players Paul Thirlwell and Michael Bridges at Brunton Park.

Carlisle, currently 11th in League One, reached the play-offs last season after finishing fourth in the table, but were beaten by Leeds in the semi-finals.

Dubliner Kavanagh enjoyed two successful loan spells with Championship side Sheffield Wednesday last season, playing 23 games and scoring two goals as Brian Laws' side avoided relegation to League One by three points.

He was one of Roy Keane's first six signings on transfer window deadline day in August 2006, joining from Wigan.

Kavanagh joined the Latics from Cardiff and has also previously played for Stoke, Darlington and Middlesbrough during a 17-year career in the game.

He is in the last year of his contract and will welcome a chance to play regular first-team football again after months of playing with the club's reserves.