Ex-Newcastle United and Watford man among surprise frontrunners for Carlisle United role

Carlisle are looking for a new manager after Paul Simpson’s departure on Saturday. The announcement that Simpson had left his role as manager came just hours after their defeat to Tranmere Rovers - one that left them just one point and two places above the League Two relegation zone.

Carlisle were relegated from League One last season having accumulated just 30 points from their 46 games, winning just seven league games in all. Simpson’s departure now means Carlisle’s search for a new manager is underway with a clash against Bradford City to come at the weekend.

One of the names being tipped to replace Simpson in the Brunton Park dugout is former Newcastle United goalkeeper Rob Elliot. Elliot is currently manager of Vanarama National League table toppers Gateshead.

Elliot replaced Mike Williamson at Gateshead and led them to the National League play-offs last season. They are currently unbeaten in six outings so far this season and defeated second-placed Eastleigh on Saturday despite being down to ten men.

Elliot, who also played for Charlton Athletic and Watford during his playing career, has not had any experience in the EFL as a manager with his role at Gateshead the first managerial role of his career. Alongside Elliot as frontrunners for the role is former Preston North End manager Ryan Lowe.

Lowe enjoyed a successful spell at Plymouth Argyle before being appointed Preston boss in December 2021. Pete Wild, who left Barrow as manager in May, has also been linked with the vacancy.