Controversial former Carlisle United owner Michael Knighton sat in the directors' box as he returned to Brunton Park for the first time in 19 years.

The man whose 10-year reign ended bitterly in 2002 was back at the stadium to watch the Blues lose 1-0 at Tranmere to go second bottom of League Two.

Knighton was welcomed into the boardroom before the game, and was then given a seat in the directors' area.

The 70-year-old, who was back in the city for an event at the Old Fire Station on Friday night - his first public appearance at Carlisle since 2002 - sat close to members of the current club hierarchy including director of football David Holdsworth and co-owner Steven Pattison.

News and Star: Michael Knighton takes his seat in the directors' area before today' game (photo: Barbara Abbott)Michael Knighton takes his seat in the directors' area before today' game (photo: Barbara Abbott)

It was a remarkable sight to see Knighton back close to the seats of power at United's ground given the stormy circumstances of his departure nearly two decades ago.

He had eventually left the club after years of fan protest against his ownership as the club lurched through a period of crisis.

Knighton had previously overseen a spell of success in the mid-1990s before the team and club declined.

His presence at the ground today caused a stir among fans, with some criticising the club for entertaining such a controversial figure from the club's past.

United have been invited to comment.

An Rod McDonald own-goal early in the second half of the game sent managerless United to a fourth straight defeat and down to second bottom in the League Two table.