Carlisle United head coach Mark Hughes has confirmed that a last-minute decision will be made regarding Cameron Harper’s availability for Saturday’s League Two clash against Harrogate Town.
The left-back, who missed Tuesday’s 1-1 draw with Walsall due to a groin issue, has returned to training, and Hughes remains hopeful that he will be fit to feature. However, the Blues boss insists that caution will be exercised to avoid the risk of further aggravating the injury.
The uncertainty over Harper’s condition means Hughes may have to adjust Carlisle’s defensive setup once again, having started with a back three against Walsall before reverting to a four-man defence midway through the first half.
Breeze and Kelly Under Watchful Eye
In addition to Harper, goalkeeper Gabe Breeze is also being monitored after taking a knock on Tuesday night. While not believed to be a major issue, Hughes has taken precautionary measures.
“Gabe got a bang, so we just protected him today,” he said. “But he’s another one we’ll just check on. Hopefully, he’ll be okay.”
Meanwhile, striker Georgie Kelly is making steady progress in his recovery from a calf injury. The Irish forward has increased his involvement in training but is not yet ready for match action.
“He’s training with the group, which he wasn’t initially when I first came through the door,” Hughes explained. He’s closer than he’s ever been since I’ve been here, but that’s not to say that he’s ready yet.
“If it means, again, just waiting a little bit longer to make sure that when he does come back, he’ll be ready to have a period of games rather than just in for one and then out for three or four because he’s come back too soon.”
Wyke and Dummett Face Race Against Time
Carlisle’s hopes of seeing Charlie Wyke and Paul Dummett return before the end of the season remain uncertain. Wyke continues to battle an ankle injury, while Dummett is recovering from a hamstring problem.
“They’re progressing and they’re trying to get back,” said Hughes. “There’s that willingness to do that, but we’ll just have to wait and see. Everybody hopes that we’ll see them before the end of the season, but we’re not privy to whether that will happen or not. But we’re hopeful.”
Writer’s View
Carlisle United are approaching a pivotal stage in their season, and these injury concerns could significantly impact their ability to remain competitive in the run-in. With key players such as Wyke and Dummett still facing uncertainty over their returns, Hughes will have to make shrewd decisions in squad rotation.
