Carlisle United head coach Rob Elliot has addressed the club's mounting pre-season injury concerns, with at least three senior players set to miss the start of the 2026/27 National League campaign. The Blues finished last season in 3rd place with 95 points (29W-8D-9L), but their preparations for the new season have been hampered by a series of setbacks.
What injuries are affecting Carlisle?
Morgan Feeney is expected to be sidelined for several weeks with a calf injury, while Bevis Mugabi is awaiting a specialist consultation for a knee problem. Luke Armstrong is also nursing an ankle injury, meaning all three will miss the opening fixture against [opponent] on August 8. Other players battling fitness issues include Stephen Wearne, Harvey Macadam, Josh Williams, Hayden Atkinson, and Elliot Embleton.
How is Elliot responding to the situation?
Elliot emphasized there is no blame to be assigned for the injuries, noting that some occurred during players' off-season training as they worked to return in peak condition. "I don't think it's a blame game or anything," he said. "They were given a programme before myself and [other staff] came in, but I don’t think there are any issues with that." He added that while the situation is frustrating, the team is focused on adapting and moving forward.
What does this mean for Carlisle's season?
With key players unavailable for the start of the campaign, Carlisle will need to rely on squad depth as they aim to close the 13-point gap to league leaders York. Last season, the team scored 87 goals and conceded 51, finishing with a +36 goal difference. Their recent form (3W-0D-2L) suggests they are capable of competing, but injuries could test their resilience early on.
Elliot remains optimistic, stating, "You can either complain about what's happened or you can adapt to it and move on and do the best you can moving forward. And that's what we're doing."
