Paul Simpson argues that after their dismal performance the previous Saturday, Carlisle United had to be prepared to face any increased scrutiny this weekend.
On Saturday, the Blues host Tranmere Rovers at home, one week after losing, 3-0 at MK Dons.
Strong criticism was leveled at Carlisle by visiting supporters for their performance at Stadium MK, especially in the first half.
After the game, some fans jeered at United and questioned Simpson’s own status. However, the manager has since been given permission to bolster his team even more with the intriguing addition of winger Jordan Jones.
Following two losses before beating Barrow, United’s poor performance at Milton Keynes has brought attention back to their early-season efforts. However, manager Simpson maintains that this is nothing out of the ordinary.
Following two losses before beating Barrow, United’s poor performance at Milton Keynes has brought attention back to their early-season efforts. However, manager Simpson maintains that this is nothing out of the ordinary.
When asked if there will be pressure for the Tranmere match, the Blues manager responded, “Obviously, yes.”
But each and every game is under pressure. Every time you play in a football game, you feel under pressure to provide your best.
“You have to deal with that if you want to succeed. Avoiding it is a pointless tactic.
“We have to deal with that, and we have to go handle it better than we [did] last weekend.”
Jones, who has been training with his teammates since finalizing his transfer on Tuesday, is a strong candidate to start against Nigel Adkins’ Tranmere, who have won two and drawn their last three league games.
Whether Simpson uses the 29-year-old in his favored 3-5-2 system or modifies his formation to best use the winger’s abilities may be the key question.
With Jones and Dominic Sadi, an AFC Bournemouth loanee who made his debut as a substitute at MK, strengthening his attacking midfield options, Simpson has until 11 p.m. on Friday to make any more moves.
