Chris Conn-Clarke says he wants to remain at Carlisle United for the rest of the campaign despite a managerial change at parent club Peterborough United.
The attacking midfielder has quickly made an impression at Brunton Park since joining on loan earlier this month, and he is already pushing for an extension beyond the original January agreement.
His stance comes even as Peterborough transition from Darren Ferguson to new boss Luke Williams.
Chris Conn-Clarke is now facing the media ahead of our Emirates FA Cup clash against Reading. 📺 pic.twitter.com/pKr3FKzUcA
— Carlisle United (@officialcufc) October 30, 2025
Conn-Clarke Enjoying His Carlisle Experience
The 22-year-old has made a flying start in Cumbria, scoring twice and providing 2 assists in his first 3 games.
Speaking to the News & Star, he said his focus is firmly on helping Carlisle United win promotion rather than returning early to his parent club.
“I want to stay for the whole season. I’ve enjoyed the first three weeks or so and I want to win the league here,” Conn-Clarke explained.
“As soon as the club came in, I initially wanted it for the full season and maybe even further options, but we didn’t do that. Hopefully, when it comes to that time, we can extend it.”
The former Altrincham star added that the managerial change at Peterborough United has not distracted him, with no contact yet from Williams.
“Maybe in the next few weeks we’ll speak, but both clubs know what my ambition is – to stay here for the season,” he said.
Back out there today doing what I love, thanks for the warm reception, onto the next 💙🤝 pic.twitter.com/Cumu3y8ayC
— christopher conn-clarke (@ClarkeConn) October 11, 2025
Impact On And Off The Pitch
Conn-Clarke’s impact has gone beyond goals and assists. He has quickly struck up an understanding with team-mates such as Regan Linney, slotting naturally into a central attacking role after initially playing from the left.
“I enjoy being in the middle more and I don’t want to take Regan’s spot off him because he’s thriving out there,” he said. “Anywhere attacking, just expressing myself – I’ll play anywhere.”
He has also been impressed by the scale of Carlisle’s support, describing the club as “bigger than expected” after experiencing the fan turnout at the club’s Halloween open day and open training session.
“The amount of fans that turned up was crazy. It’s a very good place to be,” he added.
FA Cup
The Northern Irishman, who joined Peterborough in 2022, admits last season was challenging and that the loan move was designed to help him rediscover his rhythm.
“I’m just a kid who loves playing football. Last season was tough for me, so the main objective was to come somewhere and enjoy it again. These past few weeks I’ve enjoyed it and I feel like I’m nearly back to my best.”
Carlisle face Reading in the FA Cup this weekend, and Conn-Clarke believes the Blues’ unbeaten run gives them every chance of causing an upset.
“Obviously we’re two leagues below, but I don’t feel like we’re underdogs,” he said. “We’re the team with momentum, and when you go and beat a team like Reading, it just gives you even more belief.”
Conn-Clarke’s determination to stay for the full campaign could prove vital as Carlisle United look to sustain their promotion charge and extend their unbeaten streak into the winter months.
