Paul Simpson admits his job depends on a successful summer in the transfer market for Carlisle United.

And the Blues boss says that, while he’s relishing a summer holiday after such a taxing season, he won’t be switching off from the task of rebuilding the Blues.

Simpson has taken an early post-season break in a summer when he is also set to undergo knee surgery.

His main priorities, though, concern the work needed to overhaul the squad that slid to League One relegation last season.

And the 57-year-old concedes that he needs to get things right for the club’s benefit – and also his own survival as manager.

“But I don’t remember the last time I went on holiday when my phone’s not on,” said Simpson.

“I always have it on, and [my wife] Jacqui knows – I’m still working.

“I might be working sat by a pool or sat by a beach or whatever, because I’m really fortunate to be able to do that.

News and Star: Simpson says his phone will be on and he'll be working despite taking a summer holidaySimpson says his phone will be on and he'll be working despite taking a summer holiday (Image: Richard Parkes)

“But I’ve got a big job on. A huge job on. If I want to stay manager of Carlisle United, we’ve got to get this summer right.”

Simpson, before heading off for his break, said United were in discussions with two potential signings.

But he said any confirmed deals would be unlikely until June.

United’s boss hopes to reach agreements with a number of players and then get them through the door in time for pre-season, which starts on June 24 at Brunton Park.

The Blues boss released eight players at the end of the relegation season, offering just one player – Anton Dudik – a new deal.

Simpson has also advised some under-contract players at Carlisle to look for other clubs as they are unlikely to figure in his first-team plans if he makes all the signings he wants.

United's owner, Tom Piatak, recently told the News & Star the Blues would have "all the resources" they need to build a team capable of challenging for League Two promotion.

Simpson also used a club interview to spell out that promotion was the clear aim in 2024/25.