Big frontman Richie Bennett admits he's champing at the bit for his first start - and goal - in front of the Brunton Park faithful.

The former Barrow striker has made a bright start to his Blues career.

And the 26-year-old could be handed his full home debut when Keith Curle's side face Cheltenham this afternoon (Brunton Park, 3pm).

Bennett admits he is still adapting to life at United having made his summer move from the National League, and said: "Whatever the gaffer wants, whether I'm starting on the bench or not, I'll try to make a positive impact.

"But I'd love to start in front of the home crowd and I would love to get a goal.

"I've come close to that first goal but I'm sure it's coming. I'm not too worried, because I'm getting into the right positions.

"So far it's going well. I don't like to overthink things and, whatever happens, I just try to have a good impact on the game.

"It's nice that the gaffer has put me in and to play like we have been doing shows he's got a lot of faith in me."

Bennett made his debut as a sub against Swindon, while his starts at Fleetwood and Cambridge have seen the 6ft 3in former non-league man unsettle the home defences.

Curle has praised the way the striker has taken to life in the EFL with United, but Bennett admitted he still has plenty to learn.

"There's a big difference [in standard] but we've got a quality bunch of lads here, so it makes it a bit easier when it comes to the football side," Bennett said.

"Physically it is a step up, but I'm enjoying the challenge we've got ahead.

"I think, because I joined late in pre-season, I'm probably just a little bit behind fitness-wise, but that's something I'll get on the training pitch through working hard, so that I get stronger in the last 20 minutes.

"I've been getting a bit leggy when it has come to the 70-minute mark and I need to get stronger at that, but I'm willing to put the work in."

Curle has also revealed that Bennett has been handed an unfortunate nickname by his team-mates in the Carlisle dressing room.

The striker said: "I think it's 'Rodders'!

"I'm not bothered. It's all part of it. I've been called worse in the past!"