Greg Abbott says Carlisle United’s directors have urged Paul Simpson and him to “cause them a problem” when it comes to the January transfer window.

Head of recruitment Abbott said the board expect to be challenged to find the funds if a player becomes available who could make a major difference to United’s promotion prospects.

Abbott and Simpson are drawing up lists of potential targets for the winter window.

And Abbott says they have been given positive encouragement from directors.

“When we spoke to the powers-that-be, they said if we think there’s a player out there that’s realistic – expensive but realistic – they’ve asked us to cause them a problem,” said Abbott.

“If we present a player we think can be difference between us ending up eighth or seventh, or not fourth but third which is even better, I think we’ve got to cause them a problem – present that player and wait to get an answer.

“Between Paul and myself, we know the [budget] parameters. We’re not stupid, we know we can’t go ten grand a week…

“But if we felt there is a player there who is just a touch higher than normal and could make a massive difference, it’s our duty to present and let them have the problem and deal with it.

“We’ve been given the assurance that if we did find that player, they’ll give it their best attention.”

Carlisle increased their budget this season to back Simpson’s attempt to improve the squad.

United are currently sixth after a positive start to the campaign.

READ MORE: Simmo's message to his Carlisle United squad

Abbott said there is no guarantee they will be looking to do lots of business in the new year.

But he said the ground is being prepared should Simpson feel the need to act in key areas.

“Getting it right [in January] could be no business,” said Abbott. “We can look at the team, squad, depth, players coming in from positions of being squad players at the start of the season, and playing really powerful parts in the team when asked for.

“Four or five weeks [in January] is a long time. We could have a spell of fantastic results or not great results, players can have terrific performances or dip a little bit.

“They’re the things you’ve got to react to – performances from individuals, results as a team.

“If we feel we need to do one or two things to improve that, we’ll do it and be ready for it.

“If we get to January and are still improving and maintaining results and pushing teams at the top of the league, Simmo might say there’s nothing [on our lists] that he thinks will make us considerably better, so let’s stick with what we’ve got.

“Alternatively he might ask for two or three players. I think we’re ready for sticking or twisting.”

The experienced Abbott, United’s former manager who returned to the club in the summer in the recruitment role, said he had a meeting this morning with Simpson as they discussed potential areas for strengthening and a number of options under consideration.

“We think we’re ok with the lists. Paul’s happy with it,” he said.

“We’re going to look as a staff at the lists next Thursday, so should we need a player in one of those positions, I can work out if they’re available and can we afford them.

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“I’m almost sitting on the edge waiting for the manager to react. But I’m ready and he knows I am because he’s seen the players on the list.

“We’re quite in sync with each other and the rest of the staff are on board with it.”

Read more from Greg Abbott in the News & Star tomorrow.