United’s chief executive Nigel Clibbens gave us an update on what has been happening through a busy week at Brunton Park.
Manager
“First of all, we know that everybody is waiting with anticipation and want us to make the appointment as soon as possible," he said. "As we planned and said last week, in the last seven days we have narrowed down our short-list and completed further interviews with the leading candidates.
“Additionally, we have talked to some new late applicants. By the middle of the week we had decided who we wished to hold further talks with. We have been doing that over the last few days.
“We have been getting closer to a final appointment. This final stage involves sorting out important details for the future. Importantly it covers things like staffing structure, working practices, expectations on both sides, and the mandate for what the manager will do, and how they will go about it.
"It is not just about manager contract terms. It is vital that everyone has the same shared view going forward. If it takes time to get that right, in my view it’s worth it.
“This is all progressing, but has not yet been completed. It will continue over the weekend and we will give another update when we reach a conclusion.”
Players
“This week has seen the departure of Mark Ellis [click HERE to read his interview] and Luke Joyce [click HERE to read his interview].
“Both players were well liked by staff and fans alike and we wish them well as they move on to their new clubs. Luke came in specially to say his farewells to the club staff on Thursday, which was a great gesture.
“Negotiations with club captain Danny Grainger have progressed positively and we will confirm his contract position on Tuesday. We want him to stay, and so does he.
“Academy scholar Kieron Olsen signed his first professional contract and, as with Max Brown earlier this month, it is always fantastic to see young players come through the ranks [click HERE to read his interview].”
Other matters
“This week we held the latest meeting of the Carlisle United Supporters’ Group. It is a great forum for club and fans to share ideas and work together.
"Next week sees us reach the the season ticket early buy and renewal period deadline [click HERE for details]. We'll give an update on season ticket numbers next week.
"We are also working on arrangements for our popular annual Fun Day [click HERE for details]. If fans have any suggestions of community groups or attractions who could join us on the day, please do get in touch via the links provided.
“Finally, Suzanne Kidd and I attended the launch of Carlisle Remembers 1918 at Carlisle Castle today. It’s a great community initiative which the club will support – we hope the fans will get behind it too. Keep an eye out for more details.”
