John Sheridan is holding a series of meetings with Carlisle United players this week as the Blues continue to plan for the January transfer window.

The manager is having discussions with several members of his squad whose futures at Brunton Park are to be resolved this winter.

That includes loan players but also some on the permanent books as United weigh up their plans with just over a month to go until the window opens.

Key on the agenda will be the future of four loanees whose deals are up at the turn of the year.

They are Ashley Nadesan, Jack Sowerby, Jerry Yates and Adam Campbell.

Players on short-term deals such as Anthony Gerrard will also be the subject of discussions.

And it is understood the Blues will be weighing up the fate of some squad members on longer deals who have been out of favour.

United are also thinking longer-term with a number of players entering the final months of their deals ahead of next summer.

The club’s director of football David Holdsworth said it is important all squad members keep their standards high as they head towards a crucial period both individually and as a team.

“We are all aware that the structure of the club must be run as a tight ship,” he said.

“John is fully aware of the situation and is having constant discussions regarding the future of players.

“The immediate concern and judgement will be on who John wants to retain in the winter window.

“I have been monitoring all the players in terms of their performance, minutes on the pitch, impact and contribution.

“Players have a responsibility to themselves to perform to a level the manager requires.

“John is looking for consistency, responsibility and commitment to Carlisle United.

“If they continue to do as they did against Swindon last weekend we will be delighted.”

Sheridan said he would be speaking to the individuals concerned this week and next.

“Regarding loans, [I will see] who’s happy, who wants to stay, if we can keep them or if we have to bring other bodies in,” the manager said.

The future of top scorer Nadesan will be under the microscope given parent club Fleetwood’s decision to deny United permission to play the frontman in the FA Cup.

He took his tally to eight for the campaign when he fired the opener in last weekend’s 4-0 win.

One player secure for the campaign is Regan Slater, who is on a season-long loan.

And it is understood the teenage midfielder is on one of the more favourable financial loan deals that the Blues have struck in terms of wage outlay.

Holdsworth added: “We are thankful to Chris Wilder and Sheffield United for allowing us to have the young man on an incredible deal.

“He has flourished in particular over the last three games and has shown his inner grit.

“And the way his goals were received by the other players showed how well regarded he is in the dressing room.”