More of Carlisle United’s fringe players could be heading out of Brunton Park in the next two weeks.

Manager Keith Curle says he has spoken to several clubs about some of his out-of-favour men.

The Blues boss is keen to trim his numbers after the recent loan arrivals of Mark Ellis and Hallam Hope.

Curle said: “I’ve spoken to a few representatives of clubs who are looking for players.

“Within the next couple of weeks, if there is an interest, then by all means we’ll explore it.

“But we’re not going to weaken our squad if it’s not right for us.

“We’re at a stage where other clubs will be looking at the players we’ve got and thinking those players can do them a job.

“Whereas last season we had a collection of players who, if they weren’t in favour with myself, and with the money they were earning, where were they going to go?”

There was another arrival at United yesterday in the youth ranks, with Wales under-17 goalkeeper Rhys Williams joining the Blues.

The 17-year-old will complete his second year of scholarship with United.

Williams was previously with Bury and is eligible to play for Carlisle in tomorrow night’s FA Youth Cup first round clash with Tranmere at Brunton Park.

Curle says he will be taking a close interest in tomorrow’s game.

He said: “I’m here on Wednesday night and I’m looking forward to it.

“The youth team can take a lot of credit for our first-team performances. We play them on Fridays in training, and [coaches] Alan Moore and Vince Overson don’t like their youth team to take a backward step just because they’re playing the pros.

“That’s important. From an early age, when you’re in this club you’re creating a competitive environment for the players and that’s important.”