Defensive dilemma for Abbott

Carlisle defender Peter Murphy is hoping to keep his place in the starting line-up for the npower League One clash with Exeter.

Murphy was replaced at half-time during last week's defeat at Sheffield Wednesday by Matty Robson, who made his first appearance since January due to a back injury. Manager Greg Abbott must decide whether to retain Danny Livesey and Lubo Michalik in central defence and continue with Robson at left-back, or reshuffle his back four completely. Midfielder Jon-Paul McGovern and winger Andy Welsh are pushing for a recalls to the starting XI after stepping off the substitutes' bench last week, while the experienced Paul Thirlwell offers Abbott an alternative option. Left-back Chris Chantler (hamstring) and striker Lee Miller (groin) remain sidelined, but the Cumbrians have no new injury or suspension problems as they look to keep their play-off hopes alive.