END OF THE LINE FOR ATKINS?

It has been suggested in the local press that Michael Knighton is, despite his protestations of innocence, still the man running operations at Brunton Park, and it now seems clear that the club's behind-the-scenes management team is less than impressed with Atkins's approach.

"The future of the manager is being considered. It will be resolved sooner rather than later. His behaviour will be taken into account. So too will his performance on and off the pitch," revealed club advisor David Low.

He then went on to blast Atkins over his handling of Richard Prokas's transfer to Cambridge United. The Carlisle boss claimed that the midfielder was sold without his knowledge - even going as far as to reportedly suggest that the board were doing their utmost to guarantee the club's relegation from the league.

"I am particularly disappointed with the manager's attitude over the Prokas issue. Irrespective of what was being said, he was well aware of what was going on. Prokas made it clear that he had no desire or interest in staying at Carlisle United.

"Carlisle fans should not fall for his (Prokas's) condescending platitudes about theirs being the first result he will look for on a Saturday night."

Atkins took over at Brunton Park in June 2000, having previously held the reins at Northampton, Chester, Doncaster, Cambridge and Colchester.