Carlisle sporting director Clarkson leaves after relegation

Carlisle have confirmed the exit of sporting director Rob Clarkson "with immediate effect" following the club's unsuccessful battle against relegation from League Two.

The Cumbrians lost their struggle to stay in the Football League when they were beaten 3-2 at Cheltenham Town on Saturday.

And the club has wasted little time in trimming their operation in preparation for a season in the National League by parting company with Clarkson.

Clarkson has only been at Brunton Park for six months, having been appointed in October last year after five years heading up scouting at Glasgow Rangers.

The club confirmed the news in a short statement, external, two days after their relegation was confirmed.

"Everyone at the club would like to thank Rob for his service and wish him well for the future," the statement added. "A further update will be provided in due course."

Carlisle owner and Florida-based businessman Tom Piatek offered a public apology for the club's relegation, the first time in 20 years they have dropped out of the EFL.

The ownership group insisted they would initiate a "full, top to bottom review" of all operations at the club including football performance and recruitment, promising change where it was needed.

Talks with manager Mark Hughes about whether he will stay on to lead them in the fifth tier were also said to be "ongoing and positive".