Former Carlisle United defender Ian Harte believes poor recruitment is the reason for the Cumbrians dreadful season that will see them drop back down to League Two.
After securing promotion to League One via the play-offs last season, there was high hopes that Paul Simpson’s team would be able to cement their spot in the third tier. A busy summer saw an array of incomings which increased optimism ahead of the new campaign.
The likes of Ben Barclay, Alfie McCalmont and Dylan McGeouch have failed to live up to expectations, whilst the loan signing of Luke Plange was a major disappointment. The 21-year-old joined on a half-season deal from Crystal Palace but scored just twice in 22 League One appearances before returning to Selhurst Park.
Winning just three of their opening 15 games, Carlisle were flirting with the relegation places during the first couple of months of the season before eventually dropping in to the bottom four in October.
Further signings were made in January in an attempt to salvage their season. Luke Armstrong arrived to much fanfare from Harrogate Town and looks to have settled in recent weeks, scoring twice in his last three outings. However, more questionable decisions were made, including the capture of Georgie Kelly. The attacker is yet to make a single appearance for the club after picking up a calf injury weeks after signing from Rotherham United.
Former Carlisle defender Ian Harte believes it is their recruitment which has ultimately proved to be their downfall this season. Speaking to FreeBets, the ex-player-turned-agent said:
“I think the recruitment hasn’t been good enough. Of course, when you take that step up (to League One) it’s important that you get the right type of players in.
“It’s basically the answer, their recruitment hasn’t been good enough. Off the pitch and bringing the players in, who haven’t performed as well. It’s sad to see.
“They are going to get relegated I think, but we’ll have to wait and see what happens and develops.”
Carlisle remain rooted to the foot of the table and are currently 16 points from safety. A swift return to the fourth tier looks on the cards as they prepare to host Stevenage tomorrow.
Writer’s View
It’s been a season of change at Brunton Park. A number of signings have arrived through the door and simply haven’t performed. Ultimately, that has proved to be their downfall.
However, there have been shoots of positivity. Harrison Neal already looks a cut above whilst Josh Vela was performing well before picking up an injury. Armstrong is a player who is tried and tested at League Two level, and you have to feel that he will come into his own next season. It’s been a rather harsh learning curve for the Cumbrians this season.
Head of Writing
