Courtenay brings Collins back to Carlisle

Irish businessman John Courtenay has bought Carlisle United fooball club and has re-instated former manager Roddy Collins.

The Carlisle Board of Directors issued the following statement on the club's website: "The Carlisle Board of Directors and current owner of the club, Michael Knighton, can confirm that an irrevocable sale of Michael Knighton's shareholding has been agreed in principle with Irish businessman John Courtenay.

"The sale of Mr Knighton's share is subject to the CVA plan being approved at the creditors' meeting on August 2."

Mr Courtenay - a long-time friend of former Carlisle boss Roddy Collins - has agreed to re-instate Collins as manager.