Carlisle confirm stunning appointment of Mark Hughes as new head coach | OneFootball

Relegation-threatened Carlisle United have confirmed the appointment of Mark Hughes as the club's new head coach.

The 61-year-old takes charge of The Cumbrians with the club rooted to the bottom of League Two, five points adrift of safety.

He replaces Mike Williamson in the dugout, who paid the price for a dreadful run of form that culminated in a 5-1 home defeat to Swindon on Saturday and his dismissal.

Hughes brings with him a wealth of experience both as a player and as a manager. He has managed close 700 games, with over 500 coming in the Premier League during spells with Manchester City, Blackburn Rovers, Fulham, QPR, Stoke and Southampton.

The Welsh legend has previous in League Two, having taken charge of Bradford City between 2022 and 2023.

Hughes' first game comes on Saturday when his new side travel to Grimsby Town.

📸 GEOFF CADDICK