A former Newcastle United centre-back is the frontrunner to succeed Paul Simpson at Carlisle United.

Mike Williamson, a former Newcastle United defender, has responded to suggestions that he may quit MK Dons to manage Carlisle United in League Two.

In 2019, the 40-year-old began his managerial career at Gateshead, leading them to the National League North title and promotion to the top tier of non-league football in just three years. Williamson’s team reached the FA Trophy Final in 2023, becoming the first Heed side to do so. A disappointing 1-0 Wembley defeat to FC Halifax Town ended the season, but Williamson and trusted assistant Ian Watson have already piqued the interest of a number of clubs during their time at the International Stadium.

Gateshead appeared to be on track for a play-off push after building momentum last season, but their plans were derailed when Williamson and Watson were lured away by an offer from League Two club MK Dons in mid-October. Despite a 1-0 loss to Accrington Stanley in his first game, Williamson led Stadium:MK to the League Two play-offs. However, an 8-1 aggregate defeat to Crawley Town, led by former Magpies academy graduate Adam Campbell, ended their promotion hopes.

Williamson’s side has had a poor start to the new season, sitting in twentieth place in the League Two table after losing four of their six league games so far – but this has not stopped the former Magpies defender from being touted as the leading candidate to replace former Newcastle assistant manager Paul Simpson at Carlisle United. When questioned about his links to the Cumbrians following Tuesday night’s Bristol Street Motors Trophy defeat to Colchester United, Williamson refused to comment on the speculation.

He stated: “Since I arrived, there has been speculation. I’ve been connected to two, three, or four positions. I haven’t heard anything about it, so I’m just focusing on the lads, and after a great performance, I want to see the game again. I want to ensure that we are better prepared for Saturday.”