Ex-City boss Pressley gets Carlisle job

FORMER Coventry City boss Steven Pressley has been appointed manager of Carlisle until the end of the season.

Carlisle, currently sixth in Sky Bet League Two, have the option to extend Pressley’s deal at the end of the current campaign.

The former Sky Blues player and manager replaces John Sheridan, who resigned earlier this month to take charge of Chesterfield.

Chairman Andrew Jenkins said former Scotland international Pressley impressed in the interview process and indicated a desire to make the most of what is left of the January transfer window.

“We’re pleased to have concluded this process within a relatively quick timeframe,” he said.

“With two weeks left of the transfer window it’s important that we get the squad back to a level where we know we will be competing every week.

“Steven has built up a lot of contacts both north and south of the border through what has been a very successful career, and I’m sure he will be focused on getting that side of things sorted so that all of the concentration can then be on the 18 games we have left to play.”

Pressley, 45, began his managerial career at Hearts and has since had spells in charge of Coventry and Fleetwood Town.

“He’s taken time to watch us, and he spoke a lot about the fact that he’s seen us play the type of football he likes to see,” Jenkins added.

“He’s identified that there are good players here in the squad and he feels he can continue the fantastic work that has already been done this season.

“As a player, he played for his country and was a team captain with a number of clubs before going on to do his managerial apprenticeship in some very tough and demanding situations. That level of experience is something we feel can only help. The challenge of keeping the momentum going and maintaining our push for a successful end to the season is one he is looking forward to.

“He’s also looking forward to working with the staff who are already here on keeping the intensity levels high, and on achieving continued positive results.”