PAUL Simpson has tonight left Carlisle ahead of next week’s trip to Valley Parade.

The Cumbrians announced boss Simpson’s departure following today’s 2-1 home loss to Tranmere – their third defeat in four games since being relegated back to League Two.

Simpson, who has been in charge at Brunton Park since February 2022, was booed by fans after a result that leaves them in 20th position.

Also leaving are assistant managers Gavin Skelton and Billy Barr, and head of performance Jake Simpson, the manager's son.

Former City midfielder Jamie Devitt and fellow academy coaches Mark Birch and Steven Rudd are in caretaker charge.

Simpson masterminded play-off victory over Mark Hughes’ Bantams in May 2023 on the way to winning promotion against Stockport at Wembley.

But they came straight back down after finishing bottom of League One.

They have recruited heavily during the summer window, including bringing Charlie Wyke back to the club City bought him from in 2017.