Gavin Skelton says Carlisle United must not treat today’s clash with Harrogate Town as a dead rubber.
The assistant manager says players are still very much in the spotlight at this stage of the season.
United head to the EnviroVent Stadium (kick-off 3pm) for their first game since sealing League Two survival.
Skelton, though, insists there is plenty still at stake – including professional pride, and the opportunity for players to impress with a view to next season.
“It’s always funny when people say it doesn’t matter – of course it does,” he said.
“You never know who’s watching, who’s making a note for the future if you do move on or don’t move on…
“You never know what’s going on. There’s always people watching, never mind it being a professional level and people paying good money to watch you.
“And the big carrot is, things are so much better when you win – your life’s so much easier.
“We want to finish top of this mini-league we’re in [in the bottom half of the table] and then a disastrous season can be half respectable.
“Playing for contracts here or elsewhere, wanting to get in the manager or whoever’s [thoughts] for next year – there’s lots to play for.
“On top of that, if you’re a professional you should drive yourself to win every day in training and every game.
“It’s too easy to say there’s nothing at stake.”
United’s opponents also last weekend saw fears of relegation removed.
Harrogate have lost eight in ten amid an injury-hit run.
Carlisle, meanwhile, will again be backed by strong support in Yorkshire.
It will be a first trip to Harrogate’s ground for many Blues fans, after last season’s Covid restrictions and this season’s trip taking place in the Papa John’s Trophy, when 142 United supporters attended in a sub-1,000 crowd.
Carlisle’s travelling support has been buoyant recently and Skelton said: “I’m so pleased the players have experienced that.
“It’s one thing we always do – have brilliant away support that make a lot of noise.
“Thankfully we’ve got a couple of results and they’ve responded to it. It’s really good.
“As Carlisle fans, we know the distances to travel, and it’s nice to have the players see how good they are.”
READ MORE: Kevin Gray on Carlisle United's last title and Sunday's reunion: 'There was so much belief...'
Community answers
We want to know your Carlisle United star man!
"There have been plenty of standout performers during Paul Simpson's reign so far - but which member of the playing squad has impressed you most?"
We asked for your responses - this is what you sent.
Who has been your star man for Carlisle United during Paul Simpson's reign, and why?Dinel Symeu who looked a poor defender till Paul Simpson came and transformed him into the rock at the heart if defense
Who has been your star man for Carlisle United during Paul Simpson's reign, and why?Simeuuuuuu I didn't rate him when he first came here, but under Simpson he's really gotten into it. He's playing at a championship level right now and honestly wouldn't surprise me if he becomes a regular starter for Southampton in a few seasons time
Who has been your star man for Carlisle United during Paul Simpson's reign, and why?Feeney because he has shown so much fight and determination and must now be one of the best defenders in league Two.
Who has been your star man for Carlisle United during Paul Simpson's reign, and why?Mellish
Who has been your star man for Carlisle United during Paul Simpson's reign, and why?Dynel Simeu. Because he’s overcome a poor start to be a key part of our improved defence. And he’s so enthusiastic!!
Who has been your star man for Carlisle United during Paul Simpson's reign, and why?Callum Guy. For his influence as Captain and midfield anchor - and without him Morgan Feeney wouldn't have scored the Oldham winner!
Who has been your star man for Carlisle United during Paul Simpson's reign, and why?OMARI PATRICK
Who has been your star man for Carlisle United during Paul Simpson's reign, and why?Dynel simeu played really well all games never made bad mistakes
Who has been your star man for Carlisle United during Paul Simpson's reign, and why?Jordan Gibson full of confidence
Who has been your star man for Carlisle United during Paul Simpson's reign, and why?Morgan Feeney just from Kristian Dennis,a close second. Feeney has stepped up in the enforced absence of both McDonald and Mellor and displayed a growing maturity.He has worked with Paul Simpson before and perhaps that is also a factor in his improvement; knowing exactly what the manager requires and also he has an insight into his management style.The manager also knows Feeney's strengths.a winning combination!
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