Goalkeeping coach Paul Gerrard has agreed to stay at Carlisle United.

The Blues have confirmed that the experienced coach has committed to the club for next season.

Gerrard, 49, joined the Cumbrians early into Paul Simpson's reign this season after the departure of Dan Hanford.

Simpson was keen for the former Everton and Oldham Athletic player to remain as part of his backroom staff having been impressed with his work with Carlisle's goalkeepers plus other aspects such as set-pieces.

And the United boss is delighted to have secured ex-Doncaster Rovers coach Gerrard for the 2022/23 season.

It completes another piece of Simpson's backroom jigsaw after today's earlier announcement of Greg Abbott's return as head of recruitment.

Simpson said of Gerrard: "He’s so professional, and he has a great way with both the experienced and young keepers, and I’m just delighted that it’s another thing that we’ve been able to sort out quickly.

“He knows the club now, he loves being here and I know he’s really enjoyed being part of rebuilding the positivity that we’ve all seen return to the club.

READ MORE: Greg Abbott returns to Carlisle United as head of recruitment

“He’s seen the potential with the way the fans have responded, and he’s got the bit between his teeth in terms of wanting to carry on with this journey we all want to go on."

Gerrard will next season work with United's teenage keepers Gabe Breeze and Scott Simons, plus Magnus Norman if the latter signs a new deal.

He is also likely to work with a new keeper with the Cumbrians having today released player of the year Mark Howard.

Simpson, speaking on the club website, added: "It’s great news for me, for my staff and for the club, and I know he [Gerrard] will continue to play an important part in the work we’re all doing.”