Carlisle United owner Tom Piatek makes claim on Mark Hughes’ future as manager after EFL relegation | OneFootball

Carlisle United have officially been relegated from League Two

Carlisle United owner and chairman Tom Piatak has claimed "promising" talks are ongoing with Mark Hughes over his future at the club.

The Blues had their relegation from League Two officially confirmed on Saturday with a 3-2 loss to Cheltenham Town, which has meant back-to-back relegations for the Cumbrians.

Two first-half goals, as well as a 93rd-minute strike from George Miller, sealed the club’s fate and put an end to their time in the EFL - 20 years after they won promotion from the Conference.

Hughes was appointed in early February to replace Mike Williamson, with the goal of turning around their difficult season, but the experienced Welshman has been unable to guide the team to safety, with one game still to play.

Claim made on Mark Hughes’ Carlisle United future

Carlisle's American owner Piatak has claimed that positive discussions have been held with Hughes over potentially remaining in charge of the club for next season.

Piatek made it clear that their objective for next year is to gain promotion straight back to League Two, and is aiming to be transparent and accountable about their plans to achieve this goal.

“Planning for next season is already in motion,” wrote Piatak, via the club’s official website.

“Discussions with Mark Hughes are ongoing and positive.

“The objective is clear: build a squad capable of promotion, backed by professional standards and modern infrastructure.

“We’ll have more to share with you after the final match.

“We will be transparent. We will be accountable. And we will not hide from the work ahead."

Hughes took charge of Carlisle in February, and has overseen 17 games so far, winning just five of those, with seven defeats putting the final nails in their relegation coffin.

A run of three wins in a row had sparked hope a turnaround could be completed, but just one point from their last two games has ended any hopes of survival.

Carlisle United ownership must provide solution to supporters after EFL relegation

Bringing in Hughes wasn’t enough to keep Carlisle in League Two, and supporters will be wanting answers for what’s next after two relegations on the spin.

Piatek's statement is a good start, making it clear that they want to keep Hughes in charge at Carlisle, along with promises of transparency and accountability.

The club’s decline since the ownership change thoiugh has been quite stark, making this a very important summer for their future.

Keeping Hughes would be a positive start given the impact he made, but a lot more work than just that will be needed to turn things around.