Manager sacked just two weeks after Newcastle United defender completes transfer
Carlisle United have sacked Mike Williamson following their 5-1 home defeat to Swindon Town - leaving youngster Charlie McArthur in an awkward spot.
Newcastle United sent the defender on loan to the Cumbrians until the end of the season earlier this window. McArthur played 90 minutes - his fourth appearance for Carlisle - as they were walloped on home soil.
He joined a club sitting rock-bottom of League Two but with strong Toon links given Williamson’s role as manager. Paul Dummett also joined on a free transfer last month but is currently sidelined with a serious hamstring injury.
A brief club statement confirmed Williamson’s sacking just five months into his reign. The announcement read: “Carlisle United Football Club can confirm that head coach Mike Williamson has this morning been relieved of his duties and has left the club with immediate effect.
“Everyone at the club would like to thank Mike for his efforts during his time at the club. The club will give a further update in the coming days.”
McArthur finds himself in a similar position to Newcastle under-21s teammate Alex Murphy, who joined Bolton Wanderers a fortnight ago. The Whites sacked Ian Evatt just 48 hours after signing Murphy on loan until the end of the campaign.
Ex-Newcastle striker Shola Ameobi is a key player in overseeing youth stars. Named as loan coordinator in 2019, the 43-year-old’s role, while loose, was billed as “providing the strongest pathway possible for upcoming young talent” when appointed six years ago.
"I have been a player myself and understand how hard it can be, especially when you are out on loan,” Ameobi said at the time. “I think it's important that we have someone in charge of that who can help the player and the club in terms of strategy, why we use the loan system and how we can benefit the player through that system.
"It's working with players that you can help to facilitate everything they need to succeed. I'm a big believer in helping each and every player regardless if they are playing or not. We shouldn't treat them any less just because they are out on loan and, hopefully, I can be a big plus for them going ahead."