Steven Pressley says Hallam Hope must win over Carlisle United’s fans with his performances.

Some Blues supporters cheered when the forward was substituted at Rochdale on Tuesday night.

It follows a summer of transfer speculation during which last season’s top scorer has expressed a desire to leave Brunton Park if the right move becomes available.

Pressley says the reaction of fans was understandable but he also has faith in 25-year-old Hope.

United’s manager said: “It’s their club, their team, they support them, they follow them, and if they think a player’s future lies elsewhere, you can understand their frustration.

“But I am fully supportive of him. I understand football and how it works, and that’s why I’m desperate for this window to close.”

Asked how Hope could win those supporters over again, United’s manager said: “By your performances.

“It’s like everything, it’s like me as a manager, you have to win them over by the performances, the results. Nothing will change in football and that’s the same with Hallam.”

Pressley has brought Hope back into the side for the last two games and the ex-Bury and Everton man has spurned good chances against both Salford and Rochdale.

He was put clean through by Christie Elliott in Tuesday’s cup game but delayed his shot and was tackled by a Rochdale defender.

Pressley has previously suggested the frontman’s “head has been turned” by summer transfer interest but has backed Hope to deliver the goods.

“We know what Hallam’s capable of – it will be great once the window’s closed and we can just concentrate on him being here and hopefully providing us with some goals.”

Carlisle turned down a fresh offer for Hope last week and Pressley said he was not aware of any further approaches since then.