Keith Curle has insisted Carlisle United's spate of short-term signings are vital to keeping the Blues "competitive" until the end of the season.

The manager has drafted in five new players in the space of two weeks as the injury-hit Cumbrians have slipped down the League Two table.

The recent signings policy has attracted some criticism from fans.

But Curle said the new additions are important to ensure the squad has enough options in the right areas.

"All the players were brought in to keep us competitive and to earn the opportunity to try and get in the team," the United manager said.

"They've all got skill sets that have enabled us to sign them.

"Are they all going to come in and start next week? I'd probably say no, but they're going to keep us competitive."

Just two of the five additions have made it onto the pitch so far, with Junior Joachim handed two substitute appearances and James Hooper one sub outing.

Joe Ward is awaiting his debut, while United can now involve Samir Nabi in their squad after the midfielder's international clearance came through yesterday from India.

Ben Tomlinson, meanwhile, needed extra fitness work before being considered for first-team selection, said Curle, whose side go to Yeovil this weekend desperately seeking an end to their seven game winless and goalless run.

"What we don't want to do is bring players in and not play them when they're not ready," the United manager said.

Curle also said his decision to substitute Jamie Devitt in last Saturday's defeat to Crewe was to protect the midfielder, who had only just returned from injury.

"Jamie Devitt's had one training session and we needed to play him," Curle said.

"There were boos because he was being brought off but you bring him off when you're 2-0 down because you're trying to be protective and make sure he's fit for the next game, because of his qualities.

"I understand the frustration of people, and let me tell you, I'm a very ambitious manager.

"You won't find anybody in this building that is more frustrated than me. I like winning games, I want to drive this football club forward."

Nicky Adams has joined the injured list with a hamstring injury while Shaun Miller will start a four-match ban this weekend.

James Bailey, though, is available after completing his three-match ban.

*FORMER United boss Paul Simpson led England's Under-20s to victory in the Four Nations tournament in France.

A 2-0 win against Senegal followed a 1-0 win against France and a 2-2 draw with Portugal.

Manchester United's ex-United youth keeper Dean Henderson, from Whitehaven, played in the France game and was an unused substitute in England's other two outings.