Carlisle United are hoping two more players can overcome knocks and not leave the Blues further depleted this weekend.
Fin Back and Harrison Neal are nursing injuries picked up in Tuesday’s victory at Cheltenham Town.
They are both being monitored ahead of Saturday’s home clash with Blackpool.
“Fin Back took a whack so he’s still sore, and has a bit of swelling – we’re hoping that will settle down overnight,” said manager Paul Simpson.
“Harrison Neal landed awkwardly and he’s got a bit of a problem with his shoulder where he’s not got a full range of movement.
“We’re hoping both of them will come through ok. There are still quite a few hours before the game, so we will see how they are on Friday and hopefully they will be ok to take part on Saturday – fingers crossed.”
Should Neal be sidelined it would further deplete an already thin central midfield area where Carlisle have several others out.
But it could reopen the door for some of the players who are back in the fold after being disciplined over a recent city centre night out.
Jordan Gibson and Alfie McCalmont have both been omitted from the last two matchday squads.
One midfielder not yet ready to return – but with a chance of featuring before the end of the campaign – is Dylan McGeouch, who is recovering from a calf injury.
Asked if the Scot could play in any of United’s last three games, Simpson said: “Possibly, but we’re looking at probably the last game of the season if anything.
“I think Wycombe [next weekend] will probably be too early but maybe [he could return] for the Derby County one [on April 27].
“He’s the only one, really, the rest are all ruled out for the rest of the season.”
Those missing out include Dan Butterworth and Sean Maguire following injuries in last weekend’s defeat at Northampton Town, along with longer-term absentees Callum Guy, Josh Vela, Taylor Charters, Terry Ablade and Jokull Andresson.
One man finally back in the ranks is loan striker Joshua Kayode, who made his comeback appearance as a substitute at Cheltenham after seven months out.
“I think he’s relieved,” said Simpson.
“He’s had seven months this year and also missed a lot of last year with, I think, a ruptured quad.
“He’s had a long time out of football. He seems in a good place, he’s delighted to be back involved.
“He was really pleased to get back into the club to start training with us again last week as well.
“I’m pleased for him, I’m pleased for us but I’m also frustrated we’ve missed him for seven months.”
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