Paul Simpson says he expects his Carlisle United players to remain professional after allowing them to spend Christmas Day at home.

The Blues boss says his team will still be expected to undertake some fitness work tomorrow despite being away from the club.

Simpson was content to allow his squad time with their families on December 25.

He said they are trusted to remain in top shape ahead of the Boxing Day clash with Bradford City.

“I won’t be bringing them in on Christmas Day – they’ll be given a programme to work to, when they’re at home,” said United’s manager.

“We expect them to come in ready to go and play.

“Over the years I’ve done all sorts of different things – I’ve had them in training on Christmas Day, had them off on Christmas Day.

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“The truth is I don’t think it really matters. It’s about the players coming in in the right frame of mind, being prepared to work as hard as they can, and being professional when they’re not in the club.

“Boxing Day is about getting the result. I talk about performance a lot of times – I want a result on Boxing Day, it’s as simple as that.”

Simpson, meanwhile, has reflected on an unforgettable 2022.

The year saw the Cumbrian return to United in February to lead them to EFL safety.

It also saw Simpson return to first-team management following his recovery from cancer.

“It’s been better than I expected it to be,” he said of the past 12 months.

“Last Christmas when I was out of work I certainly wasn’t expecting to be managing back at Carlisle United, but I was really chuffed to get the call in February.

“It’s gone really, really well, and I can’t put into words the welcome that I’ve had and the way the fans have accepted me back at the club.

“It’s been absolutely brilliant. I’m really enjoying my life again and hopefully it carries on for many a year to come.”