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Page last updated at 11:14 GMT, Tuesday, 4 November 2008

I want Carlisle hot-seat - Abbott

Greg Abbott
Abbott is in his second spell of caretaker charge at Brunton Park

Carlisle United caretaker manager Greg Abbott says he is determined to earn the job on a permanent basis following the departure of John Ward.

Ward left the Cumbrians on Monday following a run of 10 defeats in 11 games in all competitions.

"It's up to me to grasp it with both hands and try and make a name for myself in this industry," Abbot told BBC Radio Cumbria.

"I'm brave and daft and I'll have a go at it and give it everything I've got."

The 44-year-old is in his second spell in caretaker charge of the club following a 10-game stint in the role at the beginning of last season after the dismissal of Neil McDonald.

Abbott, who began his playing career with his hometown club Coventry City before spells with Bradford City, Halifax Town and Hull City, joined Carlisle in 2006 following a spell as youth team coach at Leeds United.

"We know we have had players who haven't performed and it's up to me now to work at these players and instil some confidence," he said.

"They are going to bust a gut and absolutely die for the cause and I'll accept nothing less."

Abbott expressed sympathy for the departed Ward after 13 months working as assistant manager to the 57-year-old at Brunton Park.

"You never like to see it happen and you've got feel sorry for him," he added.

"He's a smashing man. He's had some terrific words of comfort and encouragement for myself and I hope he gets back into football quickly."

Abbott will take charge for Saturday's visit of Grays Athletic in the FA Cup first round and admitted he faces a challenging spell in the hot-seat.

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"It's going to be a bit more difficult than the last time I took charge in the same situation," Abbott said.

"But it's one I'm not frightened of. It's one I'm going to hit head-on and try and get a bit more enthusiasm throughout the squad.

"Everybody now is playing for places as it is obviously somebody different picking the team for Saturday's game."

Greg Abbott will be the studio guest on BBC Radio Cumbria's Sportshour programme on Friday 7 November 1800-1900 GMT.

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see also
Carlisle part company with Ward
03 Nov 08 |  Carlisle
Carlisle owners give Ward backing
30 Oct 08 |  Carlisle
Ward refusing to buckle
29 Oct 08 |  Football
Pressure builds on Carlisle boss
29 Oct 08 |  Carlisle
Carlisle assistant signs new deal
17 Oct 07 |  Carlisle


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