Booth replaces John Ward who left the club by mutual consent last week in order to pursue his goal of returning to management. Booth and Ward were on the same coaching staff in the late 1980s under Graham Taylor, during his first spell as manager of the Villa Park club. Booth had played under Taylor at both Lincoln and Watford. He began his playing career in the mid-60s at Charlton Athletic. He moved on to Blackpool in 1972 but only played 13 games for the Bloomfield Road outfit. After leaving Blackpool he starred for Southend, Lincoln and Watford before moving in 1980 to Hull City where he ended his playing days in 1985 and took up his first coaching position. His only stint at management came at non-league Stafford Rangers in 1992-93. As boss of the Conference side, he helped them knock out Lincoln City in the FA Cup. His most recent stint came as coach at Nottingham Forest when they were managed by David Platt. Simpson will be delighted to persuade Booth to come north after losing the vast experience of Ward. He is under pressure to turn around United's season after they began with five points from 13 games, matching their worst-ever start in 1985-86. Last night's 2-0 LDV Vans Trophy first round success over Rochdale cheered a small crowd of 1,828 and the new Cumbrians' supremo hopes it will trigger a run of improved league results starting with Saturday's visit of Macclesfield Town. Carlisle are six points adrift at the bottom following the weekend results. Adam Rundle produced a beautiful left foot volley to put United ahead six minutes before half-time. The result was sealed when sub Brian Wake drilled home Rundle's 89th minute cross from close range. Picture from News & Star |
