Stevenage boss Steve Evans is looking forward to sharing a beer with Paul Simpson - who he says has done a "fantastic" job to turn around Carlisle United's fortunes.

Evans' side provide United with their final home opposition of the season tomorrow.

While Simmo kept Carlisle in the EFL, Evans also managed to keep third-bottom Stevenage above the trapdoor after joining the club in March.

The Scot says every United fan must be thrilled that Simpson has now committed to Carlisle for the long-term with a three-year deal.

"What I do know is Carlisle had a problem, they were in a serious situation, and then they brought in old Simmo, Paul Simpson, who's a fantastic coach, a great guy," said Evans in a club interview.

News and Star: Third-bottom Stevenage lost to Mansfield on Tuesday night (photo: Richard Parkes)Third-bottom Stevenage lost to Mansfield on Tuesday night (photo: Richard Parkes)

"I look forward to having a beer with Simmo after the game. He's gone in, with the same personnel, changed it around, got some results and quickly got them safe.

"I read in the press that he's signed a three-year deal and I think every Carlisle United supporter is really pleased with that because he's been fantastic when he's been there.

"It will be tough for us. They [Carlisle] play a couple of systems at home, they've got some experienced lads and it's always a tough place to go.

"But we want to win the game, finish the season strongly and take us forward into the summer."

Evans, who replaced Paul Tisdale at the Stevenage helm, will be joined on the touchline at Brunton Park by long-time assistant Paul Raynor.

The famously vocal pair were dubbed "the ugly sisters" by ex-Carlisle boss Keith Curle back in 2017. 

News and Star: Steve Evans, left, and No2 Paul Raynor, centre (photo: Richard Parkes)Steve Evans, left, and No2 Paul Raynor, centre (photo: Richard Parkes)

Evans is assessing the fitness of Luke Norris and Terence Vancooten ahead of the trip to Cumbria.

The visiting manager said he hoped both players would be fit, but added: "[At this stage] it should be about no risk.

"We don't want to send any player into the summer having to rehab over an injury if we don't have to put them in that position."

READ MORE: Carlisle United boss Paul Simpson: 'The fans have got me the job. They've convinced me'