Carlisle United's players return for pre-season training today - after one of the quietest summers at Brunton Park in recent memory.

Keith Curle's squad, which is still short of a host of new players, are back some 42 days since their play-off dream ended at Exeter last term.

United's boss was back at the club yesterday to finalise arrangements for the initial part of pre-season with his backroom staff.

But most fans' focus will remain on the lack of transfer news at the club.

Only Brentford loan keeper Jack Bonham has so far been revealed as a new addition, his six-month move finally confirmed by United yesterday.

The 23-year-old will take part in today's first sessions with his new team-mates after arriving at Brunton Park yesterday to complete the formalities of his move, which will run until January 1.

Other deals are said to be "imminent", with United telling the News & Star : "A number of very positive situations are coming to a close."

The former Bury duo Hallam Hope and Kelvin Etuhu have been strongly linked with moves to Brunton Park.

The club, though, have still to comment on further individual targets.

A number of trialists are also expected to join up with the Cumbrians but it has not been confirmed whether they will be there from the outset of pre-season today.

United, facing a rebuilding job after the departure of several players since the end of last term, have faced criticism from many fans over the lack of transfer news over the close-season.

The News & Star has asked the club's hierarchy to comment on the situation.

Bonham, meanwhile, said he chose United from "a number" of options.

The Brentford keeper has made only eight senior appearances so far but says he is ready for a run of first-team football, having also signed a new one-year deal at Griffin Park.

"I spoke to the manager and [goalkeeping coach] Simon Royce, that it's vital for me to go and get more experience. I'm excited and looking forward to going on loan," he said.

"It [United] was one of a number of clubs but it appealed to me the most - the way they play, how well they did last season. It must have been disappointing leaving in the play-offs, but it's just their style of play and a fresh start somewhere."