Paul Simpson has issued his first public comments since his departure as Carlisle United manager.

Simpson has used a statement via the League Managers' Association to comment on his second reign at Brunton Park.

The 58-year-old left United nine days ago after a poor start to the League Two season.

Simpson, who had been in charge from February 2022, has used his statement to thank his former colleagues and fans.

He also said he believes the club "is in a good place" and maintained a belief that the squad he assembled "can bring good times back" to United.

Simpson also referred to United as "my club" and said he will always support it.

Simpson said: "After two and a half years, I leave Carlisle United with immense pride in what we achieved together.

“When I came back in February 2022, our initial goal was to retain our Football League status and then to build the club, in order to leave it in a stronger position.

"Last season [which saw relegation from League One after the previous season's promotion] was a massive disappointment, although I believe the squad assembled for this season can bring good times back to the club. The football club is in a good place.

Simpson led United to safety in his first months back at United in 2022 before promotion the following year (pictured), then relegation back down from League One and then a poor start to the current campaignSimpson led United to safety in his first months back at United in 2022 before promotion the following year (pictured), then relegation back down from League One and then a poor start to the current campaign (Image: Richard Parkes)

“I would like to say a massive thank you to all of the players and staff, who worked tirelessly through the good times and the bad times.

"Without these dedicated people, we would have achieved none of the success.

“Finally, I would like to say a huge thank you to the local businesses and supporters. In 2022 I asked you all to get on board for the ride, and by God you have.

"The support my family and I have received has been incredible and I thank you all for that.

"I thank everyone connected to Carlisle United for some wonderful memories and I will now continue to support “my club” from the outside.”

Simpson's statement does not refer to the circumstances of his departure, which followed the 2-1 home defeat to Tranmere Rovers on August 31.

Owner Tom Piatak last week said that, while he and the Blues hierarchy had decided a change was needed, there was a "mutual" element to Simpson's departure, which was not officially described as a sacking.

United are now recruiting for a new sporting director and head coach after the departure of Simpson, assistants Gavin Skelton and Billy Barr, head of performance Jake Simpson and rehab coach Geoff Haugh.