Places are still very much up for grabs in Carlisle United’s opening-day league XI.

That's the message from assistant manager Gavin Skelton, who says things are not set in stone at this stage.

Skelton says boss Paul Simpson has a good idea of how the Blues will start the campaign.

But he says players can still play their way in – or out – of the side to face Fleetwood Town in 11 days’ time.

“When you come back at the start of pre-season, you always have an idea, but it never quite [stays that way],” said the coach.

“Things happen, injuries happen, someone disappoints you, someone surprises you, you have new signings…

“I don’t think we’re a million miles off but there’s always a few places up for grabs.”

Carlisle are keen to add more new faces to their squad ahead of the league opener.

Tonight’s game, meanwhile, should see another chance for trialist goalkeeper Dan Langley, while players who got little or no action against Newcastle United’s Under-21s on Saturday are likely to form the bulk of this evening’s side.

It is United’s penultimate pre-season game, with only a home clash with Dundee United to follow before the Fleetwood curtain-raiser.

“We have a rough idea but there’s still plenty of places up for grabs,” added Skelton.