Last updated at 16:45, Monday, 23 November 2009

Richard Keogh and Tom Taiwo are expected to be available for Carlisle United’s trip to MK Dons despite being subbed at half-time on Saturday through illness.

Tom Taiwo

Manager Greg Abbott said both players had tried to play through their pre-match symptoms but were unable to continue after the break.

“Tom looked drained, didn’t have his usual spark, and Richard couldn’t go on any longer,” said the Blues boss after the 1-0 defeat to Swindon.

“We had to make two substitutions and replace two important players who have been terrific for us, so that added insult to injury.

“Hopefully it is just a 24-hour bug and they will get home, rested up and they will be ok for Tuesday.”

Tony Kane made his first league appearance of the season as he replaced Keogh at right-back, while Scott Dobie came on for Taiwo.

Dobie will be a strong candidate to start at stadium:mk tomorrow if Abbott makes changes after Saturday’s poor showing.

Injured teenage striker Andy Cook, meanwhile, has been dealt a massive blow with the news that he will miss the rest of the season.

Cook, who recently impressed in a loan spell at Barrow, needs an operation on his broken left foot after it was revealed the problem was more complicated than first thought. The 19-year-old will undergo surgery next week.

• United’s youth team won 3-0 at Blackpool on Saturday with goals from James Reid, Ben McKenna and Ryan Bowman.

First published at 11:23, Monday, 23 November 2009
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk