Paul Simpson says he will be watching closely to see how Tomas Holy reacts to being dropped.

The Carlisle United manager left the keeper out for the first time in a league game as Jokull Andresson came into the side at Port Vale.

Blues boss Simpson said he has considered leaving out Holy at times in the past.

But now he has taken the decision, he says the way the big Czech responds will be key.

“I’m interested to see how Tomas reacts to it,” Simpson said after the Blues' 1-0 defeat.

“I made a decision. There were times where I could have done it earlier, this season and last season, but I stuck with him because I felt he was No1 and he needed backing.

“I was at a point where I felt I needed to change it this time. I’ve watched Jokull in training and I like his enthusiasm and I felt it was time for a change.

“Now it’s up to Tomas. He’s had an incredible run in the first team in league games – 53 consecutive games if you include play-offs.

News and Star: Tomas Holy was left out by Simpson for the first time in a league gameTomas Holy was left out by Simpson for the first time in a league game (Image: Richard Parkes)

“Tomas doesn’t agree with me – no player ever agrees when they get left out – but I have to make those decisions.”

Reading loanee Andresson was involved in the crucial incident that saw United lose 1-0 at Vale Park.

The Iceland international failed to control a Jon Mellish throw-in before bringing down Ethan Chislett, as James Wilson converted the resulting penalty.

Simpson, though, was adamant that Mellish’s decision to throw towards the keeper, instead of down the line, was to blame for the avoidable goal.

News and Star: Loanee Jokull Andresson made his debut at Vale ParkLoanee Jokull Andresson made his debut at Vale Park (Image: Richard Parkes)

“I thought Jokull did some really good things,” said Simpson.

“I’m absolutely gutted that he’s conceded that penalty because he shouldn’t have been put in that position.

“We have to protect goalkeepers.

"Unfortunately [his debut] will probably be remembered for that but I hope it doesn’t get to him, because I thought he made a brilliant one-on-one save and I thought he gave us a bit of confidence at the back with some good talking.

“We’ve just got to see how he does now.”