Blues boss Chris Beech said he sent Nathan Rooney on another scouting mission last night as he continues to line up January targets.

The first-team coach has been away from the dugout for the last two games.

Beech said he is using Rooney to scout potential signings, with academy boss Eric Kinder having been helping United’s first-team coaches on matchdays.

He also claimed United were being mindful of an EFL rule having been contacted by the authority.

Beech said: “Sarah [McKnight, club secretary] has had an EFL email – you’re only allowed six people on the bench, everybody hasn’t been doing that, so the Football League have come real strong on it.

“She rang me, doing her due diligence, to make sure we don’t have extra coaches. They’re allowed to be around the dugout but not actually in it, and they’ve got to be named on the teamsheet.

“We’ve got Nathan who is committed to what we’re trying to achieve. He’s been to a game to watch a player I know on loan from a Category One club who might be available in January.”

Beech said it is vital Carlisle are prepared for the transfer window and get their squad in the best possible shape.

“I understand we are where we are and in a position where our squad is very tight,” he said.

“It’s very important that players injured get fit quickly, because we are small and there’s quite a few not available, but I’ve got to make sure I’m looking towards being able to manoeuvre and make sure we’re stronger after January.”