Carlisle United have appointed former Rangers, Manchester City and Football Association man Rob Clarkson as their sporting director.

The Blues have confirmed the arrival of the 37-year-old into the key off-field role.

His appointment has been welcomed by United owner Tom Piatak, who said Clarkson's background in talent spotting and performance analysis made him the right man for the job.

Clarkson's appointment brings to a head a process which has been under way since Paul Simpson's departure as manager in late August.

Clarkson most recently worked for the FA where he led their Talent ID and selection for the England Under-17 to Under-21 teams for two years.

Previously he spent nearly five years with Rangers, where he was first-team scout and lead domestic scout.

Before that Clarkson had nearly five years with Manchester City, as a performance analyst at various academy age group levels.

The former Sunderland youth team player has also worked as a lecturer in the north east and has teaching qualifications, and was also an academy coach with Sunderland.

Blues owner and chairman Tom Piatak, speaking on the club website, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Rob as our new sporting director.

“His extensive experience in talent identification and performance analysis, combined with a data-driven approach, makes him the ideal individual to drive our football operations forward. 

“Rob's track record at the English FA and at professional clubs speaks volumes about his ability to spot and nurture talent. 

“We believe his vision will be instrumental in enhancing our competitive edge and laying a strong foundation for the future of our club."

Clarkson, speaking about his arrival at Brunton Park, added: "I’m delighted to be joining Carlisle United and I’m really excited to be a part of this club. 

“I know with the support of the owners and CEO we will get this club moving in the right direction.

"I look forward to meeting the fans at Brunton Park in the coming weeks.”

United say Clarkson will officially start work on Monday.

His appointment is hoped to be a key step in United's overhaul of their footballing operations.

The Blues had initially intended to appoint a sporting director in mid-September alongside Mike Williamson's arrival as head coach.

But they were turned down at the last minute by their expected appointment - widely understood to be MK Dons' Liam Sweeting - leading the Blues to pause the process.

A second round of interviews then took place with things being brought to a head last week during the Piataks' latest visit to Carlisle.

The News & Star revealed on Tuesday that the sporting director appointment was close, and Clarkson is now the man charged with helping take the club forward - with the January transfer window set to be an immediate priority as Carlisle look to turn their struggling League Two season around.