Manager Keith Curle says he has still not given up hope of persuading Clint Hill to join Carlisle United.

The experienced defender remains on the market after failing to agree terms on a return to QPR.

Curle was due to speak to the 38-year-old yesterday to see if a possible move to the Blues could be revived.

United's manager said: "He was close to getting a deal at QPR but the deal didn’t suit both parties.

"I'll touch base with the lad.

"He's got very good qualities and understanding of the game, and is a good character - that's why the invitation was there [to train with us in the first place].

"I've known Clint a long time and know what he's about. If we're able to do something, if it suits both parties, we're still in there."

Curle could involve some of his fringe players plus trialists in a reserve outing against Morecambe tomorrow.

But United's manager first plans to speak to Jim Bentley to find out the standard of opposition the Shrimps boss intends to send to Cumbria for a Central League Cup game.

"If they're bringing their youth team, their under 16s-17s, we'll do a bit extra in training [instead] to keep our players topped up," Curle said.

United's manager said defender Tom Miller was not involved in Saturday's squad because of a personal matter.

Carlisle's youth team were beaten 1-0 by Hartlepool in their Alliance Cup group stage game.