We’ve taken a look at the ex-Blues who could be in the running – but what about those without Carlisle United links?
There will be plenty of contenders for the managerial vacancy at Brunton Park, and bookmakers have been quick to issue their list of likely candidates.
Here we take a look at some of the leading names in the market, and one or two others.
JOHN MCGREAL
The former Colchester and Swindon boss has the shortest odds of those without any obvious Brunton Park connections. His stint at Colchester included four years as head coach, guiding the U’s to the play-offs and League Cup quarter-finals. This summer’s stint at Swindon amid off-field crisis was short-lived, yet he remains an obvious contender for lower-league jobs.
PAUL TISDALE
A name that appeals to some fans, who remember Tisdale’s long spell at Exeter which included play-off victory over the Blues, though his spells at subsequent clubs MK Dons and Bristol Rovers have been shorter and less successful. Has a reputation for long-term building, but would the sharp-dressing south west native Tisdale want to up sticks for Cumbria?
SAM RICKETTS
The former Swansea, Hull and Wales star made a bright start to his managerial career at Wrexham, earning him a step up to Shrewsbury. A two-year spell in Shropshire brought a shortage of victories and he was sacked last November. He is 10/1 to reignite his managerial ambitions with Carlisle.
KEITH HILL
It would be some story if Carlisle, having sacked Chris Beech, turned to his former boss from Rochdale. Hill has vast experience from his spells at Spotland, Barnsley, Bolton and Tranmere, though his stint with the latter ended with the sack despite taking Rovers to the play-offs last season. Could he repeat the best of his Rochdale work further north?
SOL CAMPBELL
Campbell’s first taste of management saw him keep Macclesfield up against the odds, before a stint at turbulent Southend. He has not held a top job since the latter spell ended in 2020, though he claims to have applied for a number of positions and feels he has “top-level” knowledge he can pass on.
MICHAEL FLYNN
Has not appeared in the bookmakers’ markets. But Flynn is an obvious out-of-work boss at United’s level after the recent end of his long spell at Newport. Turned the Welsh club from strugglers into contenders before a frustrating run this campaign, and will have his admirers elsewhere, probably higher up than Carlisle. But his track record in League Two still deserves close attention.
GRAHAM COUGHLAN
Someone United once tried to sign as a player is available as a gaffer after a poor spell at Mansfield. Before that, Irishman Coughlan impressed with his work at Bristol Rovers where he appeared a boss with a bright future. Moved on to a coaching role at Sheffield United, but could the top job at Carlisle tempt him?
KEVIN NOLAN
Former Notts County boss Nolan’s name was mentioned the last time there was a vacancy at Carlisle, but he is yet to return to a hotseat since his spell at Meadow Lane ended in 2019. Previously at the Leyton Orient helm, Nolan is currently working in the Premier League with West Ham, where his popularity alongside David Moyes could make him a tough one to prise away.
GRAHAM WESTLEY
No.
To see the bookies’ list of contenders, click here
Do any of the above names appeal - or should United turn to someone else? Let us know in the comments...
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel