Carlisle United manager Rob Elliot has explained the decision to name Gabe Breeze on the bench for the opening game of the season. The goalkeeper missed some pre-season action with a knee injury but returned to the squad for the Worthing game. Breeze, though, was a substitute as Archie Mair got the nod to start Saturday's 3-2 defeat in the first match of the National League season. Elliot suggested that transfer speculation and Breeze's recent injury were factors in his selection decision. The decision came amid continued EFL transfer interest in Breeze, who was Carlisle's regular No1 last season. Elliot stressed that other clubs are also interested in the keeper. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 3rd in England National League, 95 pts, 29W-8D-9L from 46 games, recent form WWWDD. Goals this season: 87 scored, 51 conceded (+36 goal difference). Title race: 13 points behind leaders York. Next fixture: vs Barrow (at home, 2027-02-06).