McDonald, a former coach with Bolton and Crystal Palace, took over from Paul Simpson at the start of last season after the former United player left to take over at Preston and guided the Blues to eighth in their first season back in Coca-Cola League One.

United drew their first game of the new season on Saturday 1-1 at Walsall, but a statement on the club website, carlisleunited.co.uk: "The board of Carlisle United football club regret to say that they have lost confidence with Neil McDonald and are terminating his contract forthwith.

"They thank him for his hard work at the club and wish him all the best for his future career."

Gregg Abbott has been appointed as caretaker manager and will take charge of the side tomorrow night for their match at Bury.

McDonald admitted his amazement after being dismissed from his job at Brunton Park.

The 41-year-old said: "This is obviously a major surprise to me.

"I am absolutely amazed this has happened so early in the season but I am not prepared to say anything more at this point."

Abbott, the club's reserve team manager and first-team coach, must now rally the players for the Carling Cup first-round tie at Gigg Lane.