Carlisle United boss: players must 'change perceptions'

The Carlisle United manager hopes the members of his squad retained from 2023/24’s relegation can return with a clear focus this summer.

Simpson said that they must not carry the “baggage” from their involvement in such a poor campaign.

And, if supporters have doubts that they can turn their Brunton Park fortunes around, it is down to all concerned to change that view.

“It's new season, it's a clean slate, you have to move on,” said the manager.

“I'm quite sure some of that baggage will still be there on the outside.

“It'll still be there in the minds of supporters as well, but the challenge for [players] is to change people's perception of them.

Paul Simpson says he faces the same challenge as players to change some fans' view of him (Image: Ben Holmes)

“That's the challenge for me [as well] – I have to change people's perception of me.

“I know that’s not [with] everybody, but we have to change it, and we have an opportunity to do that.

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“We're really fortunate we have that opportunity, so they've got to come in with a really bright mind, hopefully into a dressing room that is together, and from day one is pulling in the right direction.”

United, despite releasing eight players, still have 18 players under contract from last season.

Simpson has told a certain number of those that they are free to look for new clubs, as they are unlikely to be in his front-line plans should he make the signings he wants.

Those remaining under contract after the 2023/24 campaign are Jack Armer, Luke Armstrong, Ben Barclay, Gabe Breeze, Dan Butterworth, Taylor Charters, Jack Ellis, Callum Guy, Jayden Harris, Georgie Kelly, Sam Lavelle, Harry Lewis, Alfie McCalmont, Dylan McGeouch, Jon Mellish, Harrison Neal, Jack Robinson and Josh Vela.

Young Ukrainian striker Anton Dudik has also been offered a deal to stay at the club.