Ahead of Saturday’s trip to Rochdale, Head Coach Mark Hughes reflects on his first year at Brunton Park and looks ahead to a tough test against a promotion rival.
Speaking to CUTV, Hughes discussed progress made since his appointment, consistency in the league, standout performers, injury updates, and the test posed by a strong Rochdale team.
Here is everything we learnt:
1. A year of progress at Brunton Park
“I didn't realise it was a year but I've really enjoyed it. I think we've come a long way from the point where I was appointed to where we are now. The feeling around the club was at a low ebb when I first came in, but we're in a better place now.”
2. Pride in consistency and league position
“We’ve basically been in the top places, play-off places right from the start. We've been consistent, which is what we were looking for on the back of two poor seasons.”
3. Adapting to Carlisle’s unique challenges
“You get into a rhythm. You get your weekly schedule and it's just a pattern that you get used to and you embrace. Five-hour journeys [not this weekend, but regularly] will never be great, but once you get a coffee on the train you're fine.”
4. Building a connection with the city and club
“I spend a little bit of time in the week and I stay over as well. I enjoy the town. I've always been made very welcome here.”
5. Recognition for Luke Armstrong’s impact
“Luke's playing really well and his work rate endears him to everybody. When he's given that initial press, people react and have to move accordingly, so he's great for us.”
6. Faith rewarded after a difficult start
“I always knew that he (Luke Armstrong) was a talented boy. Once there was an option to bring him back, that was always going to happen.”
7. Charlie Wyke’s welcome return
“It was significant for him and for everybody. He needed to get over that psychological step. If we can get 20 minutes, half an hour, 45 minutes by the end of the season, that’s going to be great for us because he's a top-level player.”
8. Leadership and character in the dressing room
“He's a great guy (Charlie Wyke) around the dressing room and that's important. To have his input and his energy is going to be great for us.”
9. Positive signs on the injury front
“Junior [Luamba] was on the grass today which was encouraging. Terell [Thomas] is really close. Hopefully he'll be an option for us in the not too distant future.”
10. Preparing for a tough Rochdale test
“They're a very good team. They stick to their principles and will dominate possession. We've got to be disciplined, pick the right moments, and capitalise on the creative guys we have at the top end of the pitch.”
