Magnus Norman's decision to snub a new deal at Carlisle United leaves Paul Simpson without a recognised senior goalkeeper - after the Blues' boss opted against offering Mark Howard fresh terms.

Howard's departure was somewhat unexpected and left the club needing to replace a player who, for large parts of the 2021/22 season, was the teams's standout performer.

And Norman's exit further increases the need to bring in a fresh 'keeper.

So should Carlisle be worried about the current state - or lack of - their goalkeeping department?

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It's not an ideal position to be in, granted. There is just over a fortnight remaining until the start of pre-season and Carlisle have just Gabriel Breeze and Scott Simons to call upon between the sticks.

It will be a challenge to rebuild the goalkeeping department, of that there is no doubt.

Good stoppers are always in short supply and high demand and there are a number of League Two clubs eyeing reinforcements in that area this summer.

But it's a task that Simpson and recruitment chief Greg Abbott should relish.

The Carlisle manager has made no secret of his desire to build a squad for the long-term - but the goalkeeping department at the club has been full of short-term fixes in recent years.

Adam Collin's second stint at the club was the last time the Blues had a stopper who really established himself as a number one across multiple campaigns.

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Since then, the likes of Paul Farman, Lukas Jensen and Howard have all been brought in on a short-term basis.

While Norman did last two seasons, he mustered just 16 appearances for the club and - while there was undoubtedly potential there - the ex-Fulham youngster failed to fully convince during his time in Cumbria.

Now, however, Simpson and Abbott have an opportunity to remedy that short-term view of recent years.

Mark Howard (Photo: Barbara Abbott)

There is the chance to recruit two goalkeepers who can grow with the club; a chance to forge a goalkeeping department for the long-term.

That's easier said than done, of course.

But while the challenge may appear somewhat daunting - especially as pre-season rapidly approaches - if the duo leading Carlisle's recruitment get it right, then it could give the Blues some much-needed long-term stability in a key position.

And it's been a while since that has been the case at Brunton Park.

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