Mark Hughes has made it clear that Luke Armstrong remains firmly in his plans for next season, as Carlisle United prepare for life outside the EFL.
The 28-year-old forward joined Motherwell on loan in January, just 12 months after arriving at Brunton Park in a club-record transfer from Harrogate Town.
Hughes Unhappy With Loan Decision
His departure came during a critical stage of the club’s doomed 2024/25 campaign, and Hughes has now voiced his disapproval of how the situation was handled.
“That was one of the decisions at the time…I thought it didn’t make too much sense,” said Hughes.
“I didn’t really know the background. Until I speak to Luke I don’t really know the circumstances to any great extent why he was allowed to leave. But he wouldn’t have been allowed to do that on my watch, let’s put it that way.”
Armstrong, who has two years left on his contract, scored four goals in 14 appearances at Fir Park. While he has expressed interest in staying in the Scottish Premiership, Hughes believes the striker still has a valuable role to play in Cumbria.
“It’s in our own hands, really, because he’s contracted, that he comes back and he’s a big player for us next year,” the Carlisle boss explained.
“I’ve tried to buy him in the past, so that shows that I rate him. I think at National League level he’s been there, he’s prospered there, so I think having him back at the club would be a good thing.”
Hughes’ comments hint at a more assertive approach to squad management moving forward, contrasting the decision-making seen under the previous football leadership at the club. Armstrong lost his place under Mike Williamson before his January exit, a period when Carlisle were still battling for EFL survival. The deal was signed off by former sporting director Rob Clarkson.
Now, with Williamson gone and Hughes in full control, the plan is to sit down with Armstrong in the coming days. “I haven’t spoken to Luke on a personal level, but those are conversations that we’ll certainly be having,” Hughes confirmed.
Writer’s View
Mark Hughes’ firm stance on Luke Armstrong’s loan departure suggests a significant shift in Carlisle United’s internal decision-making. The head coach’s remarks make it clear that the previous regime’s choices won’t go unchallenged, and that he intends to bring more stability to the club’s football operations.
Armstrong’s proven track record in the National League – including a prolific spell with Hartlepool United – aligns well with the level Carlisle now face. If Hughes can re-ignite that form, Armstrong may yet prove to be a crucial figure in the rebuild.
