Top scorer Kristian Dennis looks set to make a quick return to action for Carlisle United.

Manager Paul Simpson says he expects the ten-goal frontman to be back in the squad for Tuesday’s League Two trip to Harrogate Town.

Dennis missed the FA Cup victory over Tranmere Rovers with a calf problem.

Fellow frontman Jack Stretton was also sidelined with an ankle issue.

While a return next weekend is more likely for Stretton, Dennis should be back available for United’s midweek clash in Yorkshire.

“Denno actually told me he felt it in the first minute of the game last week but it was his adrenaline that got him through,” said Simpson.

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“There was a possibility he could have been on the bench [on Saturday] but I didn’t think it was worth the risk.

“With hindsight maybe I should have put him on the bench but we got through and I got away with it.

“I expect him to be available for Tuesday.”

Stretton made it a double striker absence for the cup clash.

Simpson said of the Derby County loanee: “Jack Stretton turned his ankle in training, on Wednesday.

“Tuesday is possibly a little bit early for Jack.

“He was certainly a lot better when I saw him before the game, so we’ll see how he goes over the next few days and assess it from there.”

Simpson’s options at Harrogate will be boosted by the return of striker Ryan Edmondson after a three-match ban.

But defender Jon Mellish will serve a one-game suspension.

Simpson – who had Sonny Hilton back in Saturday’s squad after injury – expects to have other players back from the sidelines soon.

He said: “Kristian did some work [on Saturday] with Jamie Devitt and they both looked ok.

“Ben Barclay is going to be joining in training soon, and Dev will be in full training, although it’s probably too early on Tuesday for him.

“We’re starting to get players back and that’s what we need.”