Carlisle United: 'last chance' to give home fans some cheer

The final Brunton Park fixture of a campaign of struggle sees the Blues face Wycombe Wanderers on Saturday.

It is a last opportunity for a positive afternoon on home soil in front of fans who have been starved of wins all season.

United have taken just one point from their last nine home games in League One, their most recent win at Brunton Park coming on New Year’s Day against Port Vale.

The relegated Blues have won three, drawn six and lost 13 overall this season as they prepare to take on the Chairboys.

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“I still am desperate to get something for our home fans and we have only one opportunity,” said manager Simpson.

“We have to make sure the players are right and ready, and hope we can finish our home season with a positive result, which is what everyone wants to do.

“It’s the last game we can send supporters home with smiles on their faces, and we will be doing everything we possibly can to do that.”

United’s manager has injury issues to weigh up in the build-up to the 12th-placed Chairboys’ visit.

An update is expected today on Jack Robinson’s ankle injury which he suffered in the defeat to Blackpool last weekend.

Jack Robinson is having an ankle injury assessed (Image: Ben Holmes)

Fin Back’s potential return from a calf injury will also be assessed. Dylan McGeouch is unlikely to make his comeback this weekend, with a host of other players sidelined.

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Simpson must also decide whether to end the three-game exile of Jordan Gibson and Alfie McCalmont from the matchday squad following disciplinary procedures over a night out.

United’s manager went on to acknowledge the support Carlisle have received throughout their relegation campaign.

“The supporters have been outstanding, absolutely outstanding over the whole season, and I can only thank them for it,” he said.

“I’m really disappointed with the way the whole season has panned out.

“I have to shoulder that responsibility, but there’s still a determination to make sure that we have positive things ahead.”

Carlisle are also hoping to avoid making more unwanted history this weekend. Should they lose any of their remaining two games it will set a new club record for the amount of defeats suffered in a league season. The current tally of 28 shares the record with the 1986/87 third-tier side.