Carlisle United's supporters trust has welcomed news that the Blues' first league game of the season will be watched by fans in the ground.

The game at Cambridge on September 12 is being used as a test game which will see up to 2,500 home supporters allowed into the stadium.

It is part of measures designed to help achieve the safe return of fans into league grounds amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Carlisle United Official Supporters' Club said the accent must be on safety with any such initiative.

CUOSC chairman Frank Beattie said: "We want to see fans back in grounds as soon as possible.

"But it has to be safe for everyone concerned.

"Anything that leads to bringing that about must be helpful."

United fans will not be able to travel to watch the game, as it is for home supporters only.

It will, though, raise hopes that supporters will be allowed back into other league grounds such as Brunton Park soon.

United's first home league game, against Southend on September 19, will be behind closed doors as things stand, although Blues chief executive Nigel Clibbens last week suggested it was possible a proposed return of fans in October could be brought forward.

Cambridge's Abbey Stadium will host another test event when Fulham's under-21s visit in the EFL Trophy next Tuesday.