Simpson on Carlisle United's clash with Bradford City and Andy Cook

United’s promotion campaign tonight sees them face a Bantams side for whom former Carlisle frontman Andy Cook is in sensational form.

He has scored nine goals in his last ten games to help keep the Yorkshire club’s promotion hopes alive.

Simpson admits the former United youth product is in formidable form – but says his own side’s recent record should give them confidence.

“Cook’s flying and he got another two on Saturday,” said the Blues boss of a player who has 25 goals from 40 games this campaign.

“They’re a good side and it's going to be a tough game, it really is. But I'd like to think the way that we're going, they'll think it's going to be tough as well.

“We’ve got to go in with the belief that we've earned over the 36 games we've played so far. And make sure we go and do it really well.”

United will take four-figure travelling support to Valley Parade for tonight’s rearranged game.

United will take a big travelling support to Valley Parade tonight (Image: Richard Parkes)

The Cumbrians know that victory would take them back up to second place with nine games to go.

None of United’s other promotion rivals are in action this evening, and a draw or a win would take Simpson’s side back into the automatic places.

They are also aiming to put more distance between themselves and sixth-placed Bradford, who are five points adrift of the Blues.

Simpson says the likely atmosphere at Bradford’s ground makes it an occasion to relish.

“We’ve got ten huge games that we're all looking forward to and we all want to go and do ourselves justice in, and the first one’s Bradford,” he said.

“There's always a good crowd at Bradford. It's always got a bit of atmosphere and a little bit of hostility about it. It’s a great game to look forward to.

“And if as a footballer we can't get up for that type of game, then we have got problems.

“We’re still in a good position. We have an opportunity again [tonight] and hope that we can keep ourselves going.”

Simpson could freshen up his side tonight and, if he does so, could consider recalls for the likes of Kristian Dennis, JK Gordon, Ryan Edmondson and ex-Bantam Jordan Gibson.

Bradford are unbeaten in six and have lost just once in their last 12 games – but six of those have been draws, including their most recent three fixtures.

Simpson said United - who are hoping to complete a league double over the Bantams after their 1-0 Boxing Day win at Brunton Park - should not lack for motivation in the latest night in their promotion push.

“Everything about it [should inspire you],” he said.

“The league table inspires you. What we've done for 36 games does, and the supporters inspire us. The players inspire each other, the way they go about it.

“They’ve got to go and inspire themselves for number 37 now.”