Carlisle United boss on home comforts and "warrior" return

The Blues are back at Brunton Park after spending the previous three weekends on the road.

Today’s clash against Bristol Rovers (kick-off 3pm) gives United the chance to move out of the League One relegation zone.

But Simpson says his players must seize the opportunity and not take anything for granted.

“It gives everybody a lift that we know we’ve got a home fixture this weekend and on Tuesday,” said United’s manager.

“It’s good to know that we’re not going to be doing the six and seven hour travelling [that we have in successive trips to Portsmouth, Cambridge and Leyton Orient].

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“The thing is, we have to make sure we do it properly at home. We can’t go taking it for granted that we’re at home and everything will go right for us.

“We have to earn the right to get a result.

“If we can do that the league table will certainly look a bit more pleasant and it will give us a bit of a springboard to move forward.”

Jack Armer, left, and Paul Huntington, right, are both available today after suspension and injury/illness respectively (Image: Ben Holmes)

Simpson could have fit-again Paul Huntington back in today’s squad but Fin Back remains doubtful.

Jack Armer is back from suspension but could face a fight to oust Jack Robinson, who impressed Simpson with his efforts in last weekend’s FA Cup defeat at Orient.

“We’ve got decisions to make,” said Simpson.

“It’s good to see that Jack Robinson has come in and done what he did and took that opportunity.

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“It’s just unfortunate that the level of performance from the whole group wasn’t good enough. It’s good to have two options in that particular position.

“I’ll be honest, there are not many other options where we’ve got lots of other options at the moment.”

Simpson will weigh up Dylan McGeouch’s readiness for a start in midfield in place of ACL injury victim Callum Guy.

United’s boss, meanwhile, says he is delighted that former Blues and Bristol Rovers defender Nick Anderton will be at today’s game as the club’s guest.

The ex-United captain retired earlier this year after a battle with the bone cancer osteosarcoma. Anderton said in September that, following more than a year of treatment, he was cancer free.

“He’s had a horrendous time with what he’s been through,” said Simpson.

“It’s one of those situations you look at and think you just have to be really thankful for what we have.

“He’s had a real tough time. The big thing you’d say about him is he has shown what a warrior he is, what a fighting spirit he’s got.

“It will be absolutely fantastic to welcome him back to the football club.”