Football fans from around the world are getting behind the Blues during a period of financial hardship for clubs.

In just one month, Carlisle United Official Supporters Club have raised £5500 for the Carlisle REUnited Fund.

The Covid-19 fighting fund aims to help Carlisle United survive the pandemic after League Two clubs voted to end the 2019/2020 season in May.

Although the side still had nine games left to play under the watchful eye of head coach Chris Beech and director of football David Holdsworth, the club welcomed the move.

Ending the current season has allowed Carlisle United to prepare for the upcoming season.

The suspension of play removes the side’s match day income which lower level clubs rely on for survival.

CUOSC aim to rally bring Blues fans closer together whilst supporting the club with the Carlisle REUnited Fund which has seen donations from fans as far away as Russia and Australia.

It could not come at a more important time as English Football League chairman Rick Parry warned this week of a potential "£200 million hole" in EFL clubs by September.

He added that some lower league football clubs face the prospect of going bust during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The supporter’s club has thanked Carlisle United’s former players for backing the fundraiser, veterans like Derek Asmoah, Dean Walling and Jimmy Glass.

A spokesperson for CUOSC said: "If you can help boost the Carlisle REUnited fund, no matter how small the amount, it would be greatly appreciated.

"The money will be used to help the club get back on its feet when League Two football restarts."

Although £5500 has been raised already, CUOSC are "in it for the long haul."

Football clubs at every level are facing the reality that play may take place behind closed doors next season, a prospect which would put a financial strain on teams like Carlisle United.

The spokesperson said: "The campaign was started because CUOSC believe the Covid-19 pandemic will leave the Blues facing serious challenges next season, whenever it starts."

Chairman Frank Beattie said: "We are pleased with the response so far considering it isn’t an easy time for anybody at the moment.

"A lot of clubs are facing an uncertain time but we are trying to make sure there is still a professional team in the city for our children, and their children to enjoy."

In a video appeal to support the Blues during a challenging period, former player Derek Asamoah said: “Come on Carlisle United fans, we can do it together."

He remembered his memorable goal against Liverpool FC in September 2015, shocking fans when the side played at Anfield.

It was the first time Carlisle United had played at the stadium and the Blues were viewed as the underdogs in the clash.

"If every single one of you that made the trip to Anfield on that memorable night, puts in £10, just imagine how far that will go."

To support Carlisle United's future in the post-coronavirus world, visit: http://cuosc.org.uk/carlisle-reunited/