The ex-Bolton manager has named former Middlesbrough coach Steve Round as the man to help him take the Geordies back up the table where they belong, leaving Carlisle to get on with business.
Carlisle Delighted With Toon Appointment
Carlisle Utd owner Fred Story is delighted former Newcastle defender Neil McDonald's future remains at Brunton Park. His manager was strongly tipped to be heading to St James' Park.
Fred Story: "Let's get on with building another promotion-winning side. It will stop the speculation we've had over the last few months about Neil and whether he was staying or going.
"Neil made a great start to his managerial career last season with us. Now let's get on with the job here.
"We have already signed four new players - Danny Graham, Danny Carlton, Marc Bridge-Wilkinson and Chris Howarth - since the end of last season. And Neil would like more, some of which are in the pipeline. Hopefully we can get something sorted out next week when the players come back for pre-season training."