Dean Henderson's rise through the divisions proves the need to support EFL clubs through their Covid-19 financial crisis, claims a senior former Carlisle United figure.

Former Blues No2 Lee Dykes, now head of recruitment at Championship club Brentford, cited the experience gained by Manchester United's Cumbrian keeper Henderson in loan moves through the Football League as a reason why clubs should now be helped.

Commenting on Twitter, Dykes said: "I hope there is help on the way.

"Take Dean Henderson as an example, Bought by Manchester United from Carlisle United, loaned to Grimsby Town, Shrewsbury Town and Sheffield United - all three tiers of the EFL. This development saves a £50m spend on replacing David De Gea."

Dykes, who was a senior member of Keith Curle's backroom team at Carlisle, said a similar point could be made about Henderson's fellow England keepers Jordan Pickford and Nick Pope.

Pickford's loan experience whilst on Sunderland's books included a spell with Carlisle in 2014.

Henderson, from Whitehaven, was on United's academy books until the age of 14 when he was snapped up by Manchester United.

He also spent time on loan with Stockport in National League North. 

The Premier League and the Government are facing calls to offer financial help to clubs lower down the pyramid who are facing months without crucial matchday income because fans are not allowed into games for months.