Steven Pressley has been confirmed as Carlisle United's new manager.

Pressley, 45, replaces John Sheridan at Brunton Park and takes charge until the end of the season, with an option to extend his stay at the end of the campaign.

The former Scotland defender has managed Falkirk, Coventry, Fleetwood and Cypriot side Pafos but was sacked in October.

"We're really pleased to have Steven on board," chairman Andrew Jenkins said.

"He impressed us immensely during the interview process and his enthusiasm to take what is a very attractive job on really shone through.

"He's taken time to watch us, and he spoke a lot about the fact that he's seen us play the type of football he likes to see. He's identified that there are good players here in the squad and he feels he can continue the fantastic work that has already been done this season.

"As a player, he played for his country and was a team captain with a number of clubs before going on to do his managerial apprenticeship in some very tough and demanding situations.

"That level of experience is something we feel can only help."

Pressley takes charge with United sixth in League Two, and targeting promotion.

"The challenge of keeping the momentum going and maintaining our push for a successful end to the season is one he is looking forward to," Jenkins added on the club website.

"It's unusual for a manager to come into a club in this situation, but he's looking forward to working with the staff who are already here on keeping the intensity levels high, and on achieving continued positive results."

Billy Atkinson, CUOSC's United holdings board representative, said: "I'm pleased to welcome Steven Pressley as the new manager of Carlisle United following a very good recruitment process which led to a strong shortlist of candidates, interviewed by a panel of directors, including myself.

"Steven was unanimously chosen as the preferred candidate to take Carlisle United forward at this very important time.

"He has very good credentials and excellent contacts, both North and South of the border.

"I feel confident that Steven will continue the good work that we have seen so far this season.

"I wish him well and hope that our supporters will get behind him, the coaching staff and the players as we move into this exciting period for the club."

The Cumbrians host Cheltenham on Saturday.