TEENAGE defender Anthony Lloyd steps up tonight as Town ring the changes for the LDV Vans Trophy clash with Carlisle United at Brunton Park (7.45).

The 19-year-old takes the place of knee-injury victim Tony Carss while manager Peter Jackson looks set to re-vamp his defence in the wake of Saturday's gruesome 6-2 League defeat at Scunthorpe.

Paul Scott, David Mirfin and Ian Hughes are all standing by for selection against Paul Simpson's side, who were LDV finalists earlier this year and are seeking revenge for their 2-1 League defeat at the McAlpine only 10 days ago.

Midfield is also likely to feature a couple of fresh faces with Jon Worthington returning from his ban at Glanford Park and Chris Holland seeming certain to make a first start of the season.

Jackson is also confident that striker Jon Stead (thigh) will be fit to partner captain Andy Booth after joining in a light training session at Storthes Hall yesterday.

"After the events of Saturday we need a positive response tonight and I've no doubt the lads are keen to provide one," said Jackson today.

"I'm glad we've got another game to play straight away because some harsh words have been said since Saturday - words that needed to be said - and I want to see the things we've talked about being put right against Carlisle.

"There will be changes in the team, make no mistake about that, but this is an important game for us in a competition we want to do well in and it's vital we play well tonight and give ourselves the chance.

"Our away form has been dreadful, but the fact that we are still ninth in the table having failed to pick up many points on our travels has to be a positive thing, because believe me we can only improve on our away form."

Carlisle have been hit by a flu bug which has affected goalkeeper Matty Glennon, who was outstanding at the McAlpine. Brian Shelley, Will McDonagh and Ritchie Foran, who was sent-off in the League clash, are also under the weather while injuries at the club are rife.

Kevin Henderson has now signed on a free since they came out of administration, while Steve Shumacher (Everton) and Paul Arnison (Hartlepool) have joined Carlisle on loan.

"Anthony Lloyd did an excellent job when he played against Orient and he'll be keen to do well tonight, as will all the lads who are getting a chance," added Jackson

Carlisle - (probable): Glennon, Shelley, Andrews, Kelly, Byrne, McGill, Shumacher, McDonagh, Russell, Farrell, Wake.

Town - (from): Gray, Holdsworth, Lloyd, Mirfin, Scott, Hughes, Sodje, Clarke, Yates, Holland, Worthington, Fowler, Schofield, Mattis, Booth, Stead, Senior, Brown, Booty.

Referee - Mark Clattenburg (Lancs).

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