Carlisle United's supporters' trust has today condemned the abuse aimed at the team and staff after the defeat at Blackpool.

And CUOSC have also thrown their weight behind Paul Simpson a day after the manager claimed he had himself been targeted.

The trust spoke out after Simpson said he had come in for abusive words and gestures from "a lot" of fans as he and his team came over to applaud the 2,000-strong travelling support following the 3-0 defeat at Bloomfield Road.

Simpson said, "I don't need that in my life" and claimed some of those dishing out the stick had "short memories".

CUOSC, who have two directors on United's board and a ten per cent stake in the Holding company, echoed Simpson's message on the need for unity and perspective.

In a statement today, the trust said: "The CUOSC board expresses disappointment at the abuse that was given to the club's playing and coaching staff after this weekend's defeat at Blackpool from a section of the travelling support.

"Our fanbase has a remarkable passion for this club and we understand that results of late have been frustrating, but there is no excuse for the behaviour of some fans after the final whistle at Bloomfield Road.

"Criticism of performances is natural and to be expected, but personal abuse is totally unacceptable."

Simpson said he had been told to "f*** off" by some fans and had w***** gestures aimed his way.

Carlisle's boss also slammed the way some supporters cheered when he substituted striker Luke Plange.

News and Star: Simpson criticised the fans who cheered when Luke Plange was substituted at BlackpoolSimpson criticised the fans who cheered when Luke Plange was substituted at Blackpool (Image: Richard Parkes)

CUOSC's statement went on to remind fans about the "incredible journey" United have made under Simpson, who saved the Blues from relegation in 2022 before leading them to a memorable League Two promotion this year.

The trust said the manager deserves "a huge amount of credit" and that reaching League One was "probably ahead of schedule" in the circumstances.

CUOSC added that the support Carlisle have had this season underlines the club's great potential, and they said "getting behind the team" can only help the team in its fight to remain in League One.

"There is going to be significant investment by the Castle Sports Group in January and over the next few years, so let's all get behind Paul Simpson and his boys in blue, and embrace the journey," the fans' group added.

CUOSC's newly-appointed Carlisle United board member Matt Spooner added to the News & Star: "We know the window is opening soon - it seems a long way off now but we need to stick behind this group until further investment into the footballing group can take place."