Paul Simpson, manager of Carlisle United, has dispelled rumors of a fallout with former player Dan Butterworth, who recently transferred to Swindon Town. Simpson maintains that Butterworth's departure was solely due to his performance on the pitch, rather than any internal issues.

Butterworth, after completing a deadline-day move to Swindon Town, hinted in an interview that "things behind closed doors" contributed to his lack of success at Carlisle United. However, Simpson emphatically denied this, stating that the reason for Butterworth's limited playing time was evident during training sessions and matches, not in private conversations.

Simpson explained, "There's been no arguments with any of the staff, and I think everybody has tried to help Dan, and has tried to advise him as to what he needs to do differently. Unfortunately, it hasn't been anything different. I don't know what he means by ‘behind closed doors’ because the reason why Dan didn't play for us wasn't behind closed doors, it was actually on the training pitch or on the main pitch. That was the reason – so that was with the doors wide open."

Simpson acknowledged that Butterworth has potential but emphasized that the player needs to translate his ability into consistent performance on the field. He stated, "I'm quite sure that he'll be desperate to perform because we could all see that there's something there, but it's one thing having it in there, it's actually the player getting it out as well that's the biggest challenge. A coach or manager can encourage it out of a player, but it has to come from themselves. They have to have that desire to do it, it's as simple as that, and hopefully the penny will drop with Dan and there'll be a footballer there."

Despite the lack of success at Carlisle United, Simpson wished Butterworth well in his future endeavors and expressed his belief that the attacker will be keen to prove himself at Swindon Town. He added, "I don't want to get into a war of words. It's football. He moves on, we wish him all the best. It didn't work out how we all wanted, he moves on and we wish him well."

Butterworth made only ten league starts for Carlisle after signing with the club in the summer of 2023. He could now face his former team when United play Swindon at the County Ground on September 21.

Simpson revealed that the move to Swindon was initiated by Butterworth's agent and not by the Robins directly. He shared, "Butts came to me two weeks ago and said he wasn't happy with his game time, and he wasn't happy because of it all, and I said, ‘Well, I'm not going to keep somebody who's unhappy. You need to get something sorted for yourself.’ Then I found out yesterday that this opportunity at Swindon was there for him. So, we wish him well."

Simpson emphasized that he needs his squad to be united and will not retain players who are not fully committed to the team. He stated, "I need my squad to be pulling in the right direction, and I'm not going to impede a player who doesn’t want to be here."

Butterworth's departure marks the end of his short stint at Carlisle United, leaving behind unanswered questions about his time at the club. However, both the player and the club have moved on, with both parties wishing each other well for the future.

Dan Butterworth’s Time at Carlisle United

Despite being signed by Simpson in the summer of 2023, Butterworth's time at Carlisle United proved disappointing. He was unable to secure a regular spot in the starting lineup and ultimately sought a move to Swindon Town. His departure leaves a question mark over his future prospects, as he attempts to re-establish himself as a consistent performer.

Butterworth’s Lack of Success at Carlisle United

Butterworth's inability to break into Carlisle United's first team was a combination of factors, including his own performance, the club's overall strategy, and potential differences in playing style.

Dan Butterworth's New Beginnings at Swindon Town

The move to Swindon Town marks a fresh start for Butterworth, who hopes to revitalize his career under the guidance of manager Mark Kennedy. Butterworth expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating that Kennedy believes in his ability and wants him to play. This represents a positive change for the player, who was seeking a manager who could help him reach his potential.

A Look at Dan Butterworth's Career

Butterworth's journey as a footballer has been marked by both promising moments and setbacks. His transfer to Swindon Town provides him with a chance to prove himself at a new club and potentially revive his career.

The Future of Dan Butterworth

The future of Dan Butterworth remains uncertain, but his move to Swindon Town offers him a chance to re-establish himself as a valuable player. With a fresh start and the support of a manager who believes in his abilities, Butterworth could make a significant impact at his new club. His performances on the pitch will be crucial in determining his future success, and his encounter with Carlisle United on September 21 could be a defining moment in his journey.

A Chance for Redemption

Butterworth's move to Swindon Town provides him with a chance to prove his doubters wrong and demonstrate his true potential. This opportunity comes with added pressure as he faces his former team in a crucial match. The outcome of this encounter could significantly impact his future trajectory.