Carlisle United boss Paul Simpson says he can tell his promotion-chasers are in the right frame of mind – because of the racket they’re making.

Simpson says the Blues, who take on Swindon Town today (County Ground, 3pm) have been loud around Brunton Park this week.

The manager says it is a sign that his second-placed troops are in upbeat spirits as they try to maintain their promotion push.

Simpson has called on his players to enjoy and embrace the position they’re in, and said: “Certainly this week, I think I've seen that. Training’s been really upbeat. They've been really positive.

“You sort of get a sense from the noise that's coming out of the changing room and even out of the players’ lounge where they play darts together.

“You can hear the noise there. In fact, I think Amy [Nixon, media officer] had to go and shut them up when I was speaking on a Zoom call.

“So there's a good noise coming out. There's a good, positive feeling about training.

“My challenge is to keep it, but you're only going to do that by winning games of football and keeping that winning feeling, and keeping that winning spirit.”

Carlisle are aiming for a fourth straight win today which would see them hold onto second place.

If they win and rivals slip up it would strengthen the Blues’ automatic promotion claims – but a lesser afternoon would give Stevenage the chance to overtake them again.

News and Star: Ryan Edmondson could be back in the squad todayRyan Edmondson could be back in the squad today (Image: Richard Parkes)

Simpson has urged his in-form team to keep their eyes on the prize and show maximum dedication to the task in hand.

“We have to keep going. We have talked for weeks and weeks that if you can throw yourself into this end to the season and be totally committed, it doesn't half make a good summer,” he said.

“If you can go and do it properly you can have something that goes on your CV. You’ll have brought some success to a group of people that you'll never forget for life and make it a good family summer.”

LISTEN: Paul Simpson on injuries, Swindon and the promotion push

Simpson expects to have Paul Huntington available today with the defender fit despite going off with a groin problem last weekend.

Joel Senior is back in the mix for a start after recovering from illness, while fit-again Ryan Edmondson and Ben Barclay are under consideration for places in the squad.

United are set to be backed by another impressive travelling support in Wiltshire despite the latest long trip on the Cumbrians’ calendar – and the grim weather.

“The support is brilliant. Because it is a long way. We know that. And the forecast is horrendous,” said Simpson.

“But we’ve just got to go and make sure our performance keeps them warm, make sure we keep them shouting.”