Abbott mulls over Murphy recall

Carlisle manager Greg Abbott faces a defensive selection dilemma for his side's must-win last-day clash at Oldham.

Abbott has no new injury or suspension worries as his side look to leapfrog Notts County and Stevenage into the final play-off spot. But the Cumbrians boss must decide whether to recall Irishman Peter Murphy to central defence or stick with Lubo Michalik alongside Danny Livesey, with a fit-again Matty Robson at left-back. Robson had been out since January with a back injury before returning to the substitutes' bench in the recent defeat at Sheffield Wednesday, and then the starting line-up in last week's win against Exeter, and the winger-turned-defender is expected to retain his place as Abbott looks to keep an attack-minded side for a game they have to win. Striker Paddy Madden is pushing to replace Jordan Cook, on-loan from Sunderland, while teenager Mark Beck gives Abbott an alternative option. Left-back Chris Chantler (hamstring) and striker Lee Miller (groin) remain sidelined.