Gavin Skelton says Carlisle United must focus on themselves rather than dwell on opponents AFC Wimbledon’s stuttering start.

The Blues’ visitors this weekend have taken eight points from their first eight games since relegation back to League Two.

Johnnie Jackson’s Dons boast some experience and talent in their ranks despite their mediocre early form, which sees them two places below United in 15th.

Frontman Josh Davison scored at Brunton Park for Swindon Town last season, while Wales international defender Chris Gunter offers pedigree.

Another dangerman in the visiting ranks is midfielder Ayoub Assal, who has been attracting the attention of Championship clubs.

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Carlisle No2 Skelton says they must be respected - but United’s priority is on their own preparations.

“I think the front players are a real threat, they’ve got experience and pedigree right through the group,” he said of Wimbledon.

“We’ll respect that and, like most teams, they’ll be thinking they should have more points for the performances than they’ve got.

“But you have to take care of yourself. If you don’t do that you set yourself up.

“We respect them, we’re aware of their dangers but it is about us. We’re at home and we have to be on that front foot, be positive and take the game to them.”

Jackson’s side have won two, drawn two and lost four of their league games so far.

They are currently without a goal in three league outings after blanks against Barrow, Stockport County and Northampton Town.

Carlisle will be looking for their first home victory over AFC Wimbledon at the third attempt.

News and Star: Kyle Dempsey scored twice in Carlisle's 4-4 draw with AFC Wimbledon in the clubs' first meeting in 2014 (photo: David Hollins)Kyle Dempsey scored twice in Carlisle's 4-4 draw with AFC Wimbledon in the clubs' first meeting in 2014 (photo: David Hollins) (Image: David Hollins)

United’s first Brunton Park encounter with the club – who formed 20 years ago after the original Wimbledon’s controversial move to Milton Keynes – was a 4-4 draw in September 2014 under the caretaker management of Paul Thirlwell and Tony Caig.

United then drew 1-1 with the Dons early in the 2015/16 campaign under Keith Curle.

They have won once and lost once in away games against the south London outfit.

Carlisle’s last home win over the former Wimbledon was a 6-1 victory in March 1985 which featured an Andy Hill hat-trick.