Carlisle United released eight players in the past week with veteran defender Gary Liddle heading the list. The 32-year-old made over 100 appearances for the club and spent just over two seasons at Brunton Park.

Utilised mainly as a centre defender he also deputised in the defensive midfield position during his time at the club. Carlisle were disappointing this season finishing 11^th place in League Two after coming close to promotion last season.

The club was a game away from the League One promotion losing 6-5 on aggregate to Exeter in the play-off semi-finals. However, this season, Carlisle struggled at home and failed to win games that they would otherwise have won in the past.

Despite embarking on a run mid-season, the club fell off the play-off places and had to settle for midtable at the end of the season. It is understood that the release of the eight players is the first step as the club are likely to strengthen in the summer. #

Liddle recently spoke to the media after his release thanking the club for the good memories that he experienced at Brunton Park. The 32-year-old revealed that he holds no grudges and felt that the poor season was a contributing factor to the decision taken by the club.

However, his major disappointment was not securing promotion for the club which was the major goal during his time at Carlisle. Liddle would have no shortage of offers as several clubs are lining up to secure the experienced defender’s signature for next season.

The 32-year-old has an extensive list of clubs that he has featured for including, Middlesbrough, Chesterfield, Hartlepool and Bradford City. Carlisle fans will be sad to see the popular player leave and it remains to be seen if the club would be able to get a good replacement for the defender.

 

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