Oxford United vs Carlisle - Jordan Evans could make first league start for Oxford

Posted Friday, December 11, 2015 by PA

Oxford could hand on-loan Fulham youngster Jordan Evans his first league start when they take on Carlisle.

Evans marked his full debut by opening the scoring with a 35-yard screamer in Tuesday's Johnstone's Paint Trophy victory over Yeovil and the 20-year-old is in contention to keep his place in the starting XI.

Defender Sam Long returned to the starting line-up in midweek after a lengthy spell on the sidelines with an ankle injury and he could start once again.

Liam Sercombe and Pat Hoban climbed off the bench against Yeovil and they could play some part.

Carlisle's squad spent the early part of this week helping those affected by the floods around their Brunton Park ground, but boss Keith Curle insists they will be focused on the game.

He said: "There's been a lot going on in our region this week but the thing I have to manage right now is that first and foremost we're professional footballers.

"Besides that we fully understand the responsibility we have in our local community and we were determined to help as much as we possibly could when we got back from Welling."

Tom Miller failed to return from a hamstring injury at Welling and he will be monitored, while striker Hallam Hope remains doubtful due to an ankle problem.