Former Carlisle United skipper Danny Grainger is back with the Brunton Park club as lead youth development phase coach.
He has recently left crisis club Morecambe before their take over was confirmed. He had been assistant manager to Derek Adams, who also left.
Morecambe were relegated and after it looked as though they were going out of business, were taken over and have resumed fixtures in the National League.
Pemrith-born Grainger first joined United in 2014 and went on to captain the side, making over 160 appearances during a successful and influential playing spell with the club.
Following his retirement from playing, he moved into management and coaching – taking charge at Workington (twice), and also held senior roles as assistant head coach at Falkirk and assistant manager at Morecambe.
In his new position, he will oversee the coaching and development of the Youth Development Phase, ensuring young players benefit from the best possible environment, technical guidance, and a clear pathway towards first team football.
Grainger, 39 who runs his own football academy in Penrith, said: “I’m over the moon to be joining the club. I am looking forward to passing on my knowledge of the game through the Academy and helping the young players on their personal journey as they progress through the Academy.
“There’s something powerful about being part of something you genuinely care about. I’m motivated to give my best every day because this club means a lot to me.”
Academy manager Steven Rudd said: “We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Danny to the club as our new Lead Youth Development Phase Coach.
“As someone who’s played the game at a high level, he brings not only valuable experience but also a deep understanding of what it takes to progress through the Academy system and what it takes to play for Carlisle United.
“Having worked with Danny before, I know he will set high standards across the Youth Development Phase and look to help the next generation of players coming through. We’re confident he’ll be a fantastic addition to the environment we’re building here.”
