DYNEL Simeu has credited Carlisle manager Keith Millen as his main deciding factor on moving to Carlisle United on loan – adding: “It’s that warm feeling of being wanted.”

The Carlisle gaffer had driven down to Southampton twice to watch the 19-year-old defender, who has now moved to the League Two outfit for the rest of the season.

It is Simeu’s first loan spell and he will be getting his first senior professional minutes in the game, after featuring in Ralph Hasenhuttl’s matchday squads at the start of January.

Signed from Chelsea in the summer transfer window, Southampton-local Simeu followed midfielder Caleb Watts of the B team on loan to League Two.

“I know, it’s a five hours drive, isn’t easy,” Simeu said to Carlisle club media, during his first interview as a loanee.

“But it was mainly the gaffer really (who inspired his decision), he’s been great with me so far, the plans he has for me – he really wants to develop me as a player.

“Not just playing me, but he wants to really help the squad too.”

Simeu continued: “He feels really passionate about me, came down to see me and we had conversations and stuff so it’s just that warm feeling of being wanted.

“I still have to earn the right to play but the gaffer really motivated me and he helped me to make this choice.”

Simeu could make his debut when Carlisle host Sutton United on Saturday, January 29.