Carlisle City have turned to experienced defender Dan Kirkup as their new manager.

The former Carlisle United man has stepped up to the top job at Gillford Park after the departure of Jim Nichols.

Kirkup, 36, has been on City's playing books for the last five years.

He will now take the reins ahead of the new Northern League Division One season.

City, in a statement, said: "We are delighted to announce today the appointment of our new 1st team manager.

"He will be Dan Kirkup who joined us a player in 2019, continuing his career which began as a professional with Carlisle United Football Club and then spells with Workington AFC, Southport and numerous other Northern League sides.

"Dan coaches youngsters in Haltwhistle and this will be his break-through into senior football management.

"Dan's back-room staff will be confirmed soon. We wish Dan every success in his new role."

Kirkup has been an influential player in City's side during their rise to Northern League Division One in recent times.

He is now charged with building on the success delivered by Nichols, who steered City to the Division Two title in 2021/22 as well as that season's Fred Conway Cumberland Cup.

Jim Nichols, centre, has stepped down at City after five years at the helmJim Nichols, centre, has stepped down at City after five years at the helm (Image: Jordan McGrath)

City confirmed last week that Nichols and his assistant Alan Inglis had stepped down.

"Everyone at the club will be sorry to see Jim and Alan leave although we understand their reasons after committing hundreds of hours to their roles," City said at the time. "We wish them both well for the future."

City finished eighth in Division One last season. They open their new league campaign on July 27 with a trip to Tow Law Town.

The Gillford Park club will face two sets of Cumbrian derbies in 2024/25, with Kendal Town having been moved into Division One, joining City and Penrith.