Carlisle United have appointed Mike Williamson as their permanent head coach after sacking Paul Simpson last month. Williamson arrives from MK Dons after Carlisle met a release clause in his contract with the Buckinghamshire club. The 40-year-old returns to the north of England having spent six years as a player at Newcastle United and a further five as player and manager of National League side Gateshead.
Williamson moved to Stadium MK in October 2023 after Graham Alexander was sacked following a run of eight league games without a win. The club picked up 10 wins from his first 15 matches, and Williamson took the League Two manager of the month award for December 2023. MK Dons finished last season in fourth, but an 8-1 aggregate defeat to Crawley Town in the play-off semi-finals was the heaviest ever since the play-offs were introduced in 1987.
The Cumbrians sit 22nd in League Two, having lost five of their opening six league games, and visit Swindon Town on Saturday. Williamson was known for his possession-based style of play at MK Dons and that was in evidence when his side beat Carlisle 3-0 last month. That appeals to Piatak, but the new boss is keen to develop a style that connects with the Cumbrian club's supporters.
Speaking to Carlisle's website, Williamson said he was attracted by the club's strong support, with the Cumbrians averaging over 8,300 across their first three league games at Brunton Park this season despite some poor results. “The club is incredibly well supported, it's a passionate club, a historic club,” he said. “I spoke to the owners and could see the passion and values they embodied. It felt right.”
A New Era for Carlisle?
Carlisle United are hoping that Williamson can bring stability and success to the club after a disappointing start to the season. The Cumbrians are currently in the relegation zone and are in desperate need of a turnaround in fortunes. Williamson's appointment has been met with a mixture of excitement and caution from fans. Some are optimistic that he can replicate his success at MK Dons, while others are concerned about the club's lack of resources and the challenge of turning around their fortunes.
The Search for a Sporting Director
Carlisle United are also on the lookout for a new sporting director. The club's chairman, Tom Piatak, has stated that he wants to bring in a new sporting director before appointing a new manager. It is believed that a number of candidates have applied for the sporting director role, including former Stoke City technical director Ricky Martin.
A Fresh Start for Williamson
Williamson will be hoping to make a positive impact at Carlisle United. He has a good track record at MK Dons, and he will be hoping to build a successful team at Brunton Park. The Cumbrians are a club with a proud history, and Williamson will be hoping to restore them to their former glory.
A New Beginning for the Cumbrians
The appointment of Williamson marks a new chapter for Carlisle United. It remains to be seen whether he can turn the club's fortunes around, but the appointment has generated a lot of excitement amongst the club's supporters. The Cumbrians will be hoping that Williamson can bring a fresh approach and a winning mentality to the club.
The Future is Bright?
Carlisle United have a lot of work to do if they want to achieve their goal of promotion this season. But the appointment of Williamson and the search for a new sporting director is a sign that the club is taking the necessary steps to move forward. The Cumbrians will be hoping that these changes will lead to a brighter future for the club.
