Last updated at 11:15, Friday, 27 July 2012

Carlisle United manager Greg Abbott says tonight's clash with St Mirren will give his team – and his trialists – just the type of test they need.

Greg Abbott

The Blues manager will send out a senior XI for the first home friendly of pre-season against the Buddies but will also use the game to take another look at his contract hopefuls.

Jonathan Meades, Alessio Bugno, Dale Hopson, Mark Kerr and Ryan Donaldson could all be involved as Abbott nears decision-time on the trialists.

It is the first of Carlisle's remaining three friendlies as they build up to the big kick-off on Saturday, August 11.

Abbott said: “These games will tell us how strong we are and it is just what we need.

“St Mirren are coming from the SPL and that is fantastic for us. Like us, they try to play the right way and it will be a smashing game. It gives the fans the chance to see what we're doing and the pitch will be in unbelievable condition.”

Carlisle have so far scored 15 goals and conceded none from their first four friendlies against Kendal, Workington Reds, Barrow and Durham City, with teenage striker Mark Beck catching the eye with seven goals.

The Blues continue their build-up to the new campaign with the visit of Middlesbrough on Friday week before a trip to Morecambe the following Tuesday, the latter having been brought forward a day.

Abbott could make a final decision on some of his trialists after tonight's game, while the United boss this week revealed he is tracking four new transfer targets.

First published at 11:10, Friday, 27 July 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk