Paul Simpson says he will not “shy away” from the pressure to deliver as Carlisle United stand on the eve of a new season.

The Blues head to Gillingham this weekend to kick off 2024/25 back in League Two.

Carlisle returned to the fourth tier after a poor relegation season – and owner Tom Piatak has said there is an expectation to perform much better this time around.

Manager Simpson says he is well aware of the desire to improve – and of the pressure that accompanies his own position.

“I know that in football management it's a very fickle business,” Simpson told the News & Star.

“I know that we need results. It's simple as that.

“So, that's not something I'm going to shy away from.

“All through my career, I've been at football clubs who are hoping and expecting to do well. So it's something you get used to.

“I want to win. I want to win at everything. It doesn't change anything. It's just a brilliant challenge and I'm delighted to still be involved in it.”

United this weekend take on a Gillingham side under a new manager in Mark Bonner, and who are hoping to improve on last season’s 12th-placed finish.

United make their longest trip of the season, to Priestfield, on the opening dayUnited make their longest trip of the season, to Priestfield, on the opening day (Image: PA)

The Kent club were unbeaten in their last 11 league games at home from January to the end of last season. United have not beaten the Gills away from home since 1994.

“I think it'll be a tough game. They are a really tough place to go to, Gillingham,” said Simpson.

“It's probably our longest journey as well, which doesn't help matters, but we'll be fine. We'll get there in good time and ready for it.

“Mark [Bonner] has gone in there and been quite consistent with the shape he's played over pre-season.

“We've probably had six or seven of their games watched and got reports on. We won't use them all, but in the last couple you can see what sort of shape he's going to play.

“He's in the same boat as us, in that he's lost a few players with injuries and they're not sure whether they're going to be fit for the weekend.

“So it's going to be a tough challenge, but it's a great one for us. It's going to be a really good game to look forward to. Once the fixtures come out, you're looking ahead to that one. It's a game that we all can't wait to get started.”

Simpson accepts that, while a long season lies ahead, a good start is important for United.

“I think the first five or ten games are always important, where you get a bit of a gauge of where you are. So yes, it is important,” he said.

“The fixtures haven't been kind to us, but I'm not really sure who you could have played for them to be kind.

“With Gillingham and the local derby [against Barrow] as your second game and the first home game of the season, then MK Dons away, Tranmere, Bradford…there are some tasty ties, but great games to look forward to.”