Carlisle United boss Elliot wants to discuss Storey reunion as Gateshead talks continue
Former Gateshead manager Rob Elliot was named as new boss of National League rivals Carlisle United last week.
Carlisle United manager Rob Elliot has admitted he will ‘have a chat’ with former Gateshead player-coach Louis Storey about a possible reunion at Brunton Park.
The duo helped guide the Heed to an FA Trophy final win against Solihull Moors three years ago before returning for a second spell at the International Stadium to inspire the Tynesiders to a miraculous escape from relegation during the second half of last season.
Elliot held talks with the Heed hierarchy over the last month but the two parties were unable to find an agreement over a way forwards on and off the pitch and they officially parted company last Wednesday afternoon. The former Newcastle United goalkeeper agreed to take charge of Carlisle just days later following the departure of former manager Mark Hughes and he has left the door open for a possible reunion with Storey as he considers the offer of a new deal from Gateshead.
He told the News and Star: “Louis is an interesting one. He's a close friend, I love him to pieces. He's a brilliant coach, brilliant leader, but he's obviously still playing. So I think the conversation with Louis, if there is one to be had, will be more about where he sees his pathway, because he was exceptional as a player for us last year.
“He's been exceptional for Gateshead. He's won trophies and finished in play-offs. He’s been on holiday, so I've not had a chat with him. I've sent a few messages [so far]. He’s definitely someone that, for obvious reasons, I like working with. But again, it's got to be completely right.
“When he comes back home, I'll have a chat about that with him and see if it's something that will work. In terms of the coaching staff, there are staff here and there might be an opportunity to bring at least one staff member with me. So I want to make sure it fits and is right for that person and for me and for the club as it is.”
Elliot has already persuaded one member of the Heed staff to follow him to Carlisle after head of analysis and recruitment Josh Lucas was named as first-team analyst with the Cumbrians.