In the summer of 1931 Carter signed amateur terms with Sunderland. After a trial he was still considered too small to be a professional. He moved to leading local amateur side Esh Winning. On 10 October 1931 Carter made his debut for Sunderland reserves against Walker Celtic He retained his place a week later. On 12 November 1931, he signed a professional contract. It was a part-time contract (training 2 nights a week) for £3 a week plus £1 for each reserve team appearance. A big increase on his 45p a week electrician's apprenticeship. After 9 appearances, his wage was increased to £8 a week.