Despite some useful performances for the reserve side since signing up with Carlisle on the 4th of August McClen found it hard to break into the first-team. Indeed, he made only one full start in the 2-1 Carling Cup defeat at Burnley in August as well as four brief substitute appearances as he struggled to find a starting berth in a central midfield area where United are overflowing with options.
However Cumbrians player-manager Paul Simpson has stated that he will be looking around at potential midfielders in the January transfer window with McClen's release freeing up some funds in his player budget.
On the decision to let McClen go Simpson told the club's official site :
" Jamie has been a model professional and a pleasure to have around the club. He has worked hard with us but we have to be honest and say that there are other players in his position above him in the pecking order at the moment. "
Good luck Jamie from all at CUFC Online wherever life takes you.