Carlisle United are set to allow Sam Fishburn to play in the FA Youth Cup despite his first-team emergence at Brunton Park.

The 17-year-old striker made his league debut at Newport this week and could again be in the squad to face Oldham on Saturday.

But caretaker manager Gavin Skelton says it is important Fishburn continues to get plenty of action under his belt.

That is likely to see the promising young frontman line up for United’s Under-18s in their youth cup first round tie against the Latics next Tuesday.

It comes as Carlisle delay a decision on whether to send Fishburn back out on loan following his successful spell with Lancaster City, who have enquired about the striker again.

Asked if Fishburn will be available to Mark Birch’s Under-18s next week, Skelton said: “I think you want young players to play football. It’s important he continues to do that.

“He’s done well, Sam. He’ll find he’ll be on a high, then around the corner there’ll be a kick up the backside I’m sure.

“There have been a couple of calls. Lancaster were back on the phone wanting him, as you can imagine, because he did well for them.

“He’s definitely got himself on the map but he needs to continue working hard in training. We let him play for the youth team last Friday and it’s important he plays football.”

Fishburn has attracted other loan interest from non-league, but he came off the bench for the Cumbrians’ first team in Tuesday’s 2-2 draw in south Wales.

That followed a senior debut in the Papa John’s Trophy against Everton’s Under-21s last month for a player handed professional terms in the summer.

Asked about the prospect of another loan for the highly-rated teenager, Skelton suggested that may depend on the long-term managerial situation at Brunton Park.

“You probably could [loan him tomorrow] if you wanted.

“There’s lots going on at the club at the moment, and that will take care of itself in the next couple of weeks. At the moment he’s probably best with us.”