Omari Patrick says he was "humbled" by the reception he received from Carlisle United fans on his return to Brunton Park.

The Tranmere Rovers forward, whose two goals consigned the Blues to defeat and led to Paul Simpson's departure, was saluted by United supporters before and after the game.

Patrick's popularity among the Cumbrians' fanbase was clear as he was applauded off after the warm-up, and then given a respectful ovation when coming off the pitch after United's 2-1 defeat.

His two first-half goals inspired Tranmere to victory in his first game back at the ground since 2022/23's promotion season, when his goal at Wembley helped United to play-off glory.

Patrick, writing on Instagram, said: "Thank you to the Blues for the incredible reception I received.

"Very humbling and felt very honoured.

"All the best for the rest of the season."

Omari Patrick's comments on InstagramOmari Patrick's comments on Instagram (Image: Instagram)

Patrick was a popular figure in his two spells at United, initially from 2020 to 2021 and then 2022 to 2023.

His first stint at the club saw him help the side on an improved run under Chris Beech, while his second spell saw Patrick inspired to help Paul Simpson's side climb to League Two safety.

The former Bradford City man then wrote his name in Blues folklore with the equalising goal against Stockport County at Wembley as United won play-off promotion.

Patrick then left that summer and joined Sutton United, before signing for Tranmere this summer after a trial.

The 28-year-old has scored four goals in seven games so far for his new club, including both first-half goals at Brunton Park on Saturday.

Kristian Dennis was also back at Brunton Park with TranmereKristian Dennis was also back at Brunton Park with Tranmere (Image: Ben Holmes)

Another former United favourite, striker Kristian Dennis, also received a warm reception from home fans before yesterday's game.

Dennis, who was an unused Tranmere substitute, was applauded by United fans in respect of his impressive service to the club, which in 2022/23 saw the striker become the first player to break the 20-goal-a-season barrier at Carlisle since Karl Hawley in 2005/06.