Carlisle United are set to appoint Mike Williamson as their new boss according to reports from Alan Nixon.
The journalist confirmed that The Cumbrians had finalised a compensation deal with MK Dons for their manager’s services, totalling in the region of £200,000. It is understood that the former Gateshead manager is keen on a move back north.
Milton Keynes moved to sign Williamson in the wake of sacking Graham Alexander at the start of last season, who later moved on to Bradford City. During his spell in Buckinghamshire, the ex-Newcastle United centre-back won manager of the month and lifted the side from 16th to a play-off place, losing to eventual winners Crawley Town.
Long-time servant Paul Simpson was removed from his post following Carlisle’s game against Tranmere Rovers, unable to recover from the club’s dismal campaign in League One. Despite strong signings such as Charlie Wyke and and Jordan Jones from Wigan Athletic, United are currently are 22nd after six games.
The former Bristol City assistant coach took the helm at Brunton Park in 2022 and led his side to play-off glory against Stockport County. However, The Blues failed to survive in the third tier, finishing rock bottom of the league.
It comes as Carlisle attempted to poach Dons’ Sporting Director Liam Sweeting in a double deal for the club, but reports from today indicate that the former Crystal Palace man will sign a new deal at Stadium: MK.
The 35-year-old was behind deals for now Brighton midfielder Matt O’Riley and Max Dean to Gent for hefty profits. Having initially been the head of recruitment and analysis, he was promoted to his current role in 2021.
Writer’s View
Mike Williamson looks eager to move away from MK Dons, ending his near year-long run at the club. He did a remarkable job at Gateshead and carried that momentum on into pushing the club forward to the play-offs. Whilst it has been a difficult start to this season, placing 20th in League Two, he still has the quality and is one of the best options Carlisle United had available to them.
He will presumably be in charge this weekend as they travel to Swindon Town in search of an end to their five-game losing run across all competitions. Their only victory came in the Cumbrian Derby against Barrow and are now at a crucial point to salvage what was tipped to be a strong season for the club. Williamson’s departure does also open up a new vacancy in the league at a club with big resources as a result of their takeover.
