Carlisle United are set to be boosted by the return of skipper Danny Grainger, although this weekend’s game may come a little too soon.
The 32-year old was an unused sub at the weekend as the Cumbrians slumped against Yeovil, having been out with a calf injury since the August 25 victory against Crewe.
That was the last league game which saw a Carlisle goal, as well as their last win at home. That run has dampened their excellent away form and they’re hoping Grainger’s return will alleviate some of the pressure.
“We thought it (Yeovil) was a bit early, because he’d only trained about three days,” assistant manager Tommy Wright told local media. “He had the injury then had a recurrence, when he tweaked it. So we have to be careful with him. But he will get this full week’s training and that will do him a lot of good.”
Grainger has played much of his football north of the border, with spells at Dundee United, Hearts and St Mirren before his 2015 switch to Brunton Park.
He’s currently the longest-serving player in John Sheridan’s squad.
Our View
Grainger is a big player for Carlisle and his loss has clearly been felt. They’ve been fine away from home, but have lacked the organisation or discipline when performing in front of their own fans.
With the captain back, many will be hoping that is about to change because if it doesn’t, it could be a tough winter for John Sheridan.
