Dylan McGeouch will look to kickstart his injury-hit Carlisle United season next week.

Manager Paul Simpson has pencilled in an outing for the midfielder in the Blues’ Fred Conway Cumberland Cup tie against Carlisle City.

It comes as McGeouch recovers from a calf injury which has hindered his bid for first-team involvement.

It has been the second injury for the summer signing since the former Celtic man’s arrival, in a frustrating spell for player and manager.

“We’re hoping it might be [an outing] for Dylan on Tuesday,” said Simpson.

“He got a kick on his calf last week in training, so he’s just had his first day back on the grass.

“We’re expecting and hoping that if there’s no reaction from today, he’ll join in on Saturday morning with the small group that will train.

“I want to see Dylan playing – so far it’s been really frustrating in that he’s had 45 minutes at Harrogate, 60 minutes at Accrington, and we can’t keep him out on the grass, so we need to get him back out there.”

McGeouch previously had to overcome a minor hamstring injury which has left him playing catch-up in terms of game time since joining the Cumbrians.

Defender Ben Barclay is also making progress from his calf injury.

“Ben has started his work back on the grass so he’s had a couple of days now,” said Simpson.

News and Star: Ben BarclayBen Barclay (Image: Ben Holmes)

“We think he’s also going to join in on Saturday with the group that will train in the morning.”

Simpson said the county cup game would be too soon for Barclay.

Striker Joshua Kayode is expected to undergo shoulder surgery next Tuesday with the Rotherham United loan man facing a lay-off of several weeks.

Simpson reported no other new injury worries ahead of Saturday’s clash with Derby County at Brunton Park.