Keith Curle confirms new deals for Carlisle United trio

The trio have one-year extensions which will keep them at Brunton Park until the end of next season.

Cumbrian captain Grainger is understood to have signed his new deal several weeks ago, while both midfielder Joyce and winger Lambe have triggered extensions by making a certain number of appearances this season.

The news was confirmed by the Blues manager at his press conference on the eve of tomorrow's pivotal home game with Newport, where United are hoping to cling onto their play-off chances.

Curle said: "It's always good news when the players are committing their future and also the club are investing in those players because of the job they're doing."

United's boss said the situation was "ongoing" with other players whose contracts are up in the summer.

He has been in talks with Mark Gillespie, Jason Kennedy and Michael Raynes, with Jabo Ibehre's future also up for discussion.

A host of players on short-term deals will also have their futures assessed soon, while Curle hinted that he may look to move on some players whose current deals continue into next season.

He also suggested the fact United still have a chance of reaching League One could determine some of his decisions.

On how his squad could shape up for 2017/18, he added: "In my own mind I've made a decision on probably 80 per cent of the squad.

"And just because players have got contracts doesn't mean they're guaranteed to be playing here next season.

"If someone got a contract and they [now] don't fit with me for various reasons, the likelihood is they'll get told to go and pursue their career elsewhere, as a year on the sidelines can be damaging for their career.

"It's not a threat. It's how I deal with the players - professionally, honestly."

Curle is assessing Jason Kennedy and Nicky Adams today before deciding whether to recall the pair for the Newport game.

Both took part in full training yesterday, the manager said.