Paul Simpson says he will not risk Georgie Kelly into action too soon despite Carlisle United’s desperation for a turnaround.

The deadline-day signing is expected to be available soon as he gets over a minor injury “niggle”.

Kelly missed out on a place in the squad at Leyton Orient on Saturday and is not certain to be available when Portsmouth visit Brunton Park next weekend.

Simpson says he will not throw the ex-Rotherham United striker in before he is ready and put him at risk of further injury even though his bottom-placed side need results urgently.

Asked if the 27-year-old Irish frontman Kelly could feature against the League One leaders in five days’ time, Simpson said: “It’s maybe a little bit too early and I can't really say at the moment.

“We need to see how he is when we get in [this] week.

“But we're not going to force it and have him out for ages. Because I do think he’s a long-term answer.

“I'm excited to see a striking partnership of Georgie Kelly and Luke Armstrong. I think they could cause problems and score goals.”

Kelly joined United on a three-and-a-half year deal in the closing stages of the transfer window.

The former Bohemians marksman will add important traits to the Blues when he is ready to be unleashed, Simpson insists.

“He’s a physical player, he’s a good size, he's got good energy about him,” the Carlisle manager added.

“He's got a fantastic goalscoring record, particularly in the times when he was a regular starter over in Ireland.

“He's got goals for Rotherham, but just hasn't had many starts because he's been playing a lot of times at Championship level.

“I just think he’s a good sort to have and is a good type of character. And I think he'll just bring that physicality that you need.”