However, he quickly settled into the team, and his second season at Spotland saw him mature greatly. The young Scouser blossomed in what was an otherwise very disappointing season for Dale. He looked to be a real find and his performances led to him being voted Young Player of the Season 98/99 by readers of this website.

When Graham Barrow was sacked, and replaced by Steve Parkin, the future looked even brighter for the midfielder. The new tactics appeared more suited to Carden's natural passing game, and it was hoped that he could continue his progression. However, it was not to be. Carden was never really given a fair crack of the whip under Parkin, and first team opportunities became very limited. It soon became apparent that he had no future at Spotland, and after a trial at Hull City, he moved to relegation threatened Chester City.

Since leaving Dale, he's proved himself to be a decent midfielder at this level, playing for numerous clubs in both League Two and at Conference level. He's recently made his first steps into management becoming assistant manager at Cambridge United.