Carlisle United have announced former Wales manager Mark Hughes as their new Head Coach.

Hughes will be joined at Brunton Park by new assistant coach Glyn Hodges with both signing rolling contracts.

Sporting director Rob Clarkson said: “I’m delighted that Mark has agreed to join Carlisle United.His experience and stature in the game speaks for itself.

“He is someone who will instantly command respect from all staff and players and I am really excited to work with him.

“The players we have here will suit the way he wants to play and I’m sure our fans will really get behind him and the team in our remaining 18 games.”

Hughes, 61, has a wealth of experience having been on the touchline for close to 700 games during his managerial career, with over 500 in the Premier League.

During his time in management he has taken charge of the Welsh national team, Blackburn Rovers, Manchester City, Fulham, QPR, Stoke City and Southampton in the Premier League, as well as most recently managing Bradford City in Sky Bet League Two.

As a player, he started his career with Manchester United before going in to play for European giants Barcelona, Bayern Munich along with Chelsea, Southampton, Everton and Blackburn Rovers.

He won numerous trophies during his playing career, including the FA Cup, UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup, League Cup and the Premier League along with picked up 72 international caps for Wales, scoring 16 goals.

Including the winning goal against England 17 minutes into his international debut.

Hodges, also 61, has assisted Hughes at a number of clubs during their coaching career having first joined forces for Wales in 2004. 

Hughes and Hodges will join current staff Chris Bell and Ian Watson, alongside goalkeeper coach Tom Weal.

They will take charge of Thursday’s training session ahead of Saturday’s trip to Grimsby with the side sitting bottom of League Two.