Paul Simpson says nothing is set in stone yet about contract decisions – and players can still change his mind.

Carlisle United take on Stevenage tomorrow as their road to what appears an inevitable League One relegation continues.

The Blues’ return to the fourth tier is all but certain yet even at this stage manager Simpson says his squad still have plenty to play for.

“Players can change our judgements. There's nothing set in stone at the moment. We haven't had any conversations,” said the manager.

“I keep saying it – it's [more] about getting some pride back because that has been massively dented.

“Although the summer is only five weeks of the season left from this Saturday, and that doesn't seem a long time, it is a long time.

“So it's about doing the best professional job that everybody can to finish this season off. And then we have to take whatever comes after that.”

United’s slump to 12 defeats from 13 has left them 16 points adrift with eight games to go, and at risk of having relegation sealed over Easter.

News and Star: Paul SimpsonPaul Simpson (Image: Richard Parkes)

This weekend they take on a Stevenage side who, under Steve Evans, are just outside the play-off places.

The Cumbrians are also hoping for a boosted attendance through their #onecarlisleonecommunity offer which includes adult tickets at £10 and junior tickets at £5 if bought before match day.

Simpson is desperate for a performance that rewards fans’ continued loyalty through a struggling campaign.

“I'm a big believer that as a professional footballer, you are on show every single game,” he added.

“I always say if you do Monday to Friday properly, Saturday becomes easier.

“I've actually said it this week again – I don't know how many times I've said it [to the players] – regardless of your situation, whether or not you're under contract next season, whether you're out of contract in the summer, whether you're a loan player that returns to your parent club, you have an obligation to go and perform to the best of your duties, to the best of your ability.

“I am hoping that whoever is selected on Saturday will go out and perform to the best of their ability.”