Carlisle United are delighted to announce the appointment of Rob Elliot as the club’s new Head Coach.
Elliot, 40, joins following his recent departure from Gateshead, where he earned a reputation for building belief, creating momentum and getting results quickly. He joins the club on a rolling contract and will arrive at Brunton Park on Friday to begin work immediately.
Across two spells with the Heed, Rob led the club to a sixth-place finish in the National League and experienced FA Trophy success at Wembley.
He later returned in difficult circumstances, with the club 11 points from safety, and helped guide them away from relegation trouble to secure their fifth-tier status.
Former Premier League goalkeeper with Newcastle United and Republic of Ireland international, Rob, now arrives at Carlisle with a clear identity and strong ideas on how he wants his teams to play.
The club believes this is the right time to move forward with someone who can build on the progress made last season, bring added drive and intensity, and develop a tactically flexible, front-foot, attacking team that plays with purpose, creates chances and connects with supporters.
Rob Elliot said: “This is a huge club and opportunity, and I’m really excited to get started.
“I want us to play attacking, aggressive football with and without the ball. We want to win, we want the players to enjoy it and want the fans to be excited to turn up and watch a team that plays good football with an identity but more importantly gives absolutely everything for the badge.
“We want to be adaptable. We want to get to know and understand the players we have to get the best out of them on the training ground and in games. We want to have a clear plan when coming up against opposition. But we always want to be positive, aggressive and brave.
“I really like the owners’ vision for the club. Carlisle is a one club city and that matters. I know what it feels like when a football club is at the heart of a city, how important it is that the team represent the fans, people and the community.
“I know how much this means to the Piatak family too. And they want the best for not just the club but the community as well.
“Everyone I have spoken to at the club has been excellent with me. There is a strong squad, there is young talent coming through and there is a real opportunity to build something that people can feel part of.
“This is a brilliant football club, with real ambition, and a fantastic fanbase – I can’t wait to get started.”
Chairman, Tom Piatak said: “Last season brought more stability on the pitch, a third-place finish and a squad that had started to move in the right direction.
“Rob’s appointment is about building on that progress and taking the next step. He has energy, drive and a clear sense of how he wants his teams to play.
“He has shown he can come into a football club, make an impact quickly, build belief and get players moving in the right direction.
“We have a young, athletic and dynamic squad, and we believe Rob’s leadership, communication and coaching style will suit this group well.
“He understands the importance of winning, but also the importance of building something with purpose.
“I would also like to thank everyone who has contributed throughout this process. A number of people have given their time, insight and support, and I would especially like to thank Paul Hart for his guidance and experience. His input has been valuable as we have worked through this decision carefully and professionally.
“We are excited to welcome Rob to Carlisle United and look forward to working with him.”
As part of the club’s football leadership structure, Rob will report to Marc Tierney, whose role has developed into Sporting Director.
Marc Tierney said: “We’re delighted to welcome Rob and are looking forward to working with him. He brings a positive mindset and a playing style that fits perfectly with the direction we want to move in.
“Rob encourages his teams to play with purpose, confidence, and freedom to express themselves on the pitch.
“Just as importantly, he is an outstanding communicator who will maintain high standards and understands exactly what a successful football environment should look and feel like on a daily basis.
“We believe he is an ideal fit for this squad, this club, and the long-term vision we have for the future".
