Carlisle United have completed the permanent signing of attacking midfielder Ted Jenks. The 24-year-old joins the Reds after a standout season with Worthing FC, as reported by the Sussex club this week.
Jenks made his debut for Carlisle in the Emirates FA Cup Second Round Qualifying Replay against Jersey Bulls. He quickly opened his account for the club, scoring his first goal against Forest Green Rovers two rounds later. His arrival bolsters a Carlisle squad currently sitting 15th in the National League with 5 points from their opening four games, recording one win, two draws, and one loss.
Who is Ted Jenks?
Ted Jenks is a former Brighton & Hove Albion academy player who joined Worthing FC in West Sussex last September. He made an immediate impact at the Sussex Transport Community Stadium, scoring 16 goals in 45 appearances across all competitions. His performances earned him a move to Carlisle United, where he has already contributed with goals and assists. Worthing FC expressed their gratitude to Jenks for his efforts at their home ground.
What did he achieve last season?
Jenks played a key role in Carlisle United's successful 2025 campaign. The club were crowned National League South Champions in April 2025, earning promotion to the fifth tier. Jenks scored a brace in the final match of that season against Dorking Wanderers. His form continued into the current season, where he netted two goals in a win over AFC Totton and a headed equaliser against Enfield Town in March 2026. This run of form saw him earn the Enterprise National League South Player of the Month award for March.
How has he started this campaign?
The attacking midfielder has begun integrating into Adam Hinshelwood's side. He scored a header in the opening home match of the National League campaign against Forest Green Rovers. Jenks also provided a pair of assists in a Friday night home encounter with Tamworth. These contributions are part of a team that has scored 8 goals and conceded 6 so far this season, leaving them with a +2 goal difference but seven points behind early leaders Sutton United. Fans can track the team's progress on the official standings page.
Where does he fit in the squad?
Jenks operates primarily as an attacking midfielder, offering creativity and a goal threat from the centre of the park. His ability to arrive in the box was demonstrated by his headed goal against Forest Green. Manager Adam Hinshelwood now has another offensive option as he looks to improve upon the team's current league position and recent form of draw, win, draw, loss. The full squad list shows the depth available in midfield.
Carlisle United's next match is a crucial opportunity to close the gap at the top of the table, with their upcoming fixtures detailed on the club's fixtures schedule.
