Carlisle United confirm Dave Timmins as goalkeeping coach

He is set to join Paul Simpson’s backroom staff from Ayr United.

Timmins, 52, will join Carlisle shortly as the long-term replacement for Paul Gerrard, who left the club on the eve of pre-season.

The experience coach had a previous spell with the Blues in 2008-9 under John Ward and Greg Abbott.

He also worked under Simpson at both Preston North End and Shrewsbury Town.

Former Newcastle United man Simon Smith is currently working with Carlisle’s keepers on a short-term basis, but Simpson said he is delighted to have secured Timmins’ services.

“He’s a fantastic goalkeeper coach and he has an incredible work ethic,” said the Carlisle manager.

“He wants to put a plan in place to try and get goalkeepers for the future of the football club, not just for now.

“I know the lads will enjoy working with him. He’s got a real hunger about him.”

Simpson said he hoped Timmins would be able to join Carlisle next week, but that depends on Ayr securing a replacement.

United’s boss added that Timmins had agreed to join the Blues soon after Gerrard’s departure, but the club had to be patient because of his obligations to Ayr.

“We’ve had to be quiet about it and be patient out of respect to the situation with his current club, who have been very good about it,” added Simpson.

Simon Smith, right, has been working with United's keepers on a temporary basis in pre-season (Image: Barbara Abbott)

“The fact is he’s their coach, so it’s only right that we’ve done it properly.”

Simpson also suggested Timmins was coming to United with an eye on the long term.

Gerrard left after some 15 months at the club.

He added: “I just think it’s important to get good people in, and to have people who really want to drive the club forward.

“I’m here because I want to be here for the long-term and to try and build something. I think having spoken to Dave that’s exactly what he wants. I know Gav [Skelton, assistant manager] wants that as well.

“We’re all in the same boat, we want to make this football club better, and the more good people you can have involved the better it is for everybody.”

Timmins has worked for a host of other clubs including Tranmere Rovers, Port Vale, Blackpool, Rochdale and Greenock Morton.

He also had a brief spell in management with Swedish side Gällivare Malmbergets.

Simpson went on to pay tribute to Smith for his work with United’s keepers in pre-season so far, including their current training camp at the University of St Andrews.

“Simon has been brilliant, I’ve been so pleased with him,” he said.

“He’s got so much experience and he’s a top fella and a top coach. He’s been good with the guys so far.”