PAUL Simpson has issued more updates on injured and returning players in his Carlisle United squad ahead of this weekend's clash with Sutton United.

Ahead of the game against Matt Gray's Us, the Blues boss gave more clarity about who will be missing and who could be in contention to be involved at the weekend.

Simpson confirmed that Ben Barclay and Fin Back are facing long-term absences with the pair expected to be out for 'four to six weeks' and 'three to four months' after respective ankle and hamstring injuries.

READ MORE: Fin Back to be out for 'three to four months' after undergoing surgery - Simmo

In his defensive line, Simmo also gave an update on the fitness of Morgan Feeney after the centre-half was forced off in the match against Salford City with a hamstring problem.

He said: "He's doing okay, he's progressing well, he's still not fit for this weekend, we're hoping maybe to get him into full training next week or get him up to maximum speed next week with a view to being involved in the next two or three weeks."

There was also a number of first-team players who played in Carlisle's mid-week Central League Cup defeat against Blackpool, with the returning Jamie Devitt and Joel Senior among them.

He said: "Jamie Devitt played 90 minutes, came through the game okay so he's getting himself back fit again.

"Joel Senior played 45 minutes which was always the plan and he's okay after that, his knee feels good. His body is aching which is normal but his knee feels good."

"It's a case of just building up his fitness, building up his work, his match minutes and hopefully then we will make the right call as to when he can come back into the first-team picture."

Simpson also gave an update about Corey Whelan who went off during the Walsall game last weekend.

He said: "We are still working with him to try and get him ready for this weekend, his is a kick with bruising and swelling and we're just hoping that settles down and he should be available for Saturday."

Callum Guy missed last weekend's FA Cup game through illness and also looks to be in contention for Saturday.

Simmo said: "Callum's fine, he's trained all week so he'll come back into the group for saturday and I'm pleased to welcome him back.

"He's somebody who I feel is important to our group."

READ MORE: Paul Simpson backs Tomas Holy after goalkeeper's FA Cup error against Walsall