Carlisle United have paid tribute to former manager Ian MacFarlane, who has died.

The big Scot, whose time at Brunton Park saw two top-half finishes in English football's second tier in the early 1970s, was 86.

MacFarlane was known as a larger-than-life character whose period at United saw him sign the maverick legend Stan Bowles.

He also brought in Blues favourites such as John Gorman and Bobby Owen.

Lanark-born MacFarlane, known as "the big man", played for Aberdeen, Chelsea, Leicester and Bath and, after playing, his coaching career included spells at Sunderland, Middlesbrough, Leicester and Manchester City.

Known for his flamboyant personality and for inspiring some attractive football at Brunton Park in two-and-a-half campaigns between 1970-2, MacFarlane was affecitonately remembered by the Blues today.

Chairman Andrew Jenkins said: “Ian was a real character and was extremely well liked by everyone who met him.

“He could often be larger than life in his approach and his enthusiasm for football would rub off on everybody.

“The style of football was good to watch, and the players responded to the way he asked them to do things.

"I was very sad to hear of his passing and would like to pass on my thoughts and condolences to his family.”

MacFarlane's other former clubs paid tribute today. Chelsea said they were "greatly saddened" to hear of the death of their "tall, tough-tackling" former full-back.