New manager Steven Pressley said Gary Miller “did himself proud” on his first Carlisle start for three months.

Right-back Miller was recalled for Pressley’s first game in charge after Gary Liddle suffered a knee injury in training on Friday.

It was only the summer signing’s fourth league start for the Cumbrians.

Pressley said the ex-Plymouth man responded well.

“Gary’s done himself proud,” the manager said.

“He’s a player I knew from my time in Scotland, and he built himself up to have a good reputation in Scotland.

“It’s pleasing to see he performed the way he did.

“But it’s only one game - it’s about doing it week-in, week-out and Gary knows that.”

Pressley admitted he was disappointed to lose Liddle on the eve of his first game.

“It’s a knee injury. We’re hopeful he’ll not be too long,” said the new boss.

“It was really disappointing to lose him. I’d heard such positive things about him, and from the footage I’ve watched of the team, he’s such a consistent performer.

“He’s not a player that misses games very often. He always wants to be out there.

“Every player wants to impress a new manager, but Gary doesn’t need to worry. I’ve seen him numerous times, and he’s a great character.

“As I said, the important thing is Gary Miller had an opportunity and he stood up to it. That’s very pleasing.”

Pressley also said full home debutant Liam McCarron deserved his “terrific ovation” upon being substituted.

The 17-year-old tested the Cheltenham defence with his pace and was involved in the move that led to Carlisle’s opening goal.

“I’m really pleased for young Liam - his work-rate and effort was terrific,” Pressley said.

“He got a terrific ovation, and we also have to remember that young Slates [Regan Slater] is only 19.

“That’s one of the things I like, the age of the squad.

“We have experience in the correct areas, we also have the youth in areas where I think we need the speed and the dynamic.

“It’s a good blend, it suits just now. Prior to coming in I looked at the way they were most effective and it’s about me trying to continue that.”