Gavin Skelton insists Carlisle United have no need to “panic” in the transfer market and can bide their time for deals if needs be.

The Blues have made one early signing in the January window with Middlesbrough defender Jack Robinson joining on loan.

He is unlikely to be the last addition this month with manager Paul Simpson keen to bolster his injury-hit squad in other positions.

Skelton confirmed that attack – where United have been hit by injuries – is one area they would like to strengthen.

But the assistant boss said they would not be rushing into deals.

Asked if injuries to Ryan Edmondson and Jack Stretton had highlighted attack as a key area for reinforcements, Skelton said: “I think everyone wants forward players – the top end of the pitch is probably the most vital and we’re probably no different.

“But I think we’re in a strong position, we’re in no rush to jump in.

READ MORE: Injury latest on Carlisle United strikers and defender

“If someone comes available that we like, and loads of work has gone on, then potentially.

“But there are so many rumours, ifs, buts, maybes, and things change, it’s hard to comment on it.

“But we’re no different to others – you want to try and add to forward areas.”

Edmondson is expected to be sidelined for much of the rest of the season after dislocating his shoulder in last month’s defeat at Northampton Town, while Skelton said Stretton is facing two or three weeks out with a hamstring injury.

United’s No2 would not be drawn on the imminence or otherwise of further deals but confirmed the Blues were working hard on the task of adding to their squad.

“It always changes – you think you’re getting there [with a deal] and it doesn’t happen, and nothing happens for days, and then it’s back on,” he said.

“It’s impossible to comment on rumours. You’re obviously keen to do it, it’s ongoing work, the manager and Greg Abbott [head of recruitment] are working closely and will be on top of that.

“I think we’re in a good position. If you can add that’s great. We’re not in a position where we need to panic or chase anything.

“You’re always looking to improve; every team is. We’re no different.

“There’s lots of work going on everywhere, and there’s loads of rumours. Hopefully when it comes to Newport there’ll be some news, but you never know.

“I think the best way to deal with January is not to comment until something happens. I’ve been involved in so many over the years where you think it’s done, then it isn’t.

“You never know what’s round the corner from hour to hour, never mind day to day. It’s ever evolving.”

Skelton, meanwhile, said he was not aware of any expressions of interest in Carlisle’s players from other clubs.

Simpson is keen to keep his fourth-placed squad intact for the second half of the campaign and Skelton said: “If sometimes there’s interest it’s a good thing because it means we’re playing well and it benefits us, but I’m not aware [of anything].”

United do not have a game this weekend, and return to action next Saturday at home to Newport County.