Richie Bennett is closing in on a return to action for Carlisle United after missing their last three games with injury.

The big striker is nearing fitness and could be a contender to return against Morecambe this Saturday.

Blues assistant manager Tommy Wright said Bennett was closer than Jamie Devitt to a comeback.

Defender Anthony Gerrard is also being monitored after he sat out Tuesday’s Checkatrade Trophy defeat at Sunderland.

“His [Gerrard’s] calf was tight after Saturday,” Wright said. “If it had been a league game, it would have been 50-50, but we couldn’t risk him.”

Wright admitted United were taught a lesson by Sunderland in Tuesday’s second half after a more positive first half showing.

“The first half was even, with chances at both ends, and we moved the ball really well at times,” said the Scot.

“I think Ashley Nadesan is finding his legs now after a number of games and he scored a good goal.

“But being honest, in the second half we got overrun and outplayed.

“Some of the lads who haven’t played a great deal found the last 25-30 minutes tough against a good team.

“We also looked loose and lost discipline - our technical ability on the ball wasn’t great.

“You might get away with it in our league a bit but Sunderland moved the ball quickly and found us out a bit.”

Wright also said he was encouraged with how 17-year-old Liam McCarron handled his first senior start.

The youngster played for almost an hour in the 3-1 defeat at the Stadium of Light.

“McCarron’s in the squad not because he’s 17 - he’s there on ability,” Wright said.

“We think he’s going to be a good player and it was always planned to play him in this game, at a fabulous ground against some very good players.

“I thought especially in the first 30 minutes he was excellent and looked lively.

“He needs to make his decision-making a bit better but for a 17-year-old kid he did well.”