Exeter v Carlisle preview

Team news ahead of Saturday's League One clash between Exeter City and Carlisle United at St. James' Park.

Defender Scott Golbourne is likely to return to action for Exeter . The 23-year-old suffered a dead leg in the 4-4 draw with Sheffield United last weekend but the Grecians are hopeful he will have recovered in time to face the Cumbrians. The news is not so positive for striker Guillem Bauza, however, whose niggling hamstring complaint has once again ruled the Spaniard out of action. Meanwhile, full-back Billy Jones also remains sidelined with a fractured toe but centre-back Richard Duffy is available for selection after making a full recovery from an ankle knock. Exeter go into the game looking to extend a three-match unbeaten streak in League One. Carlisle's new signing Christian Ribeiro will go straight into the squad. The 21-year-old defender signed on loan from Bristol City this week and could play some part for Greg Abbott's side. Right-back James Tavernier will play his last match before returning to Newcastle and American Frank Simek has not yet fully recovered from long-term hip and calf injuries, so Ribeiro may be included on the bench. Defender Stephen O'Halloran will be sidelined for up to eight weeks after damaging knee cartilage and will have surgery next week, while winger Andy Welsh (calf) remains sidelined. Striker Francois Zoko is pushing for a return to the starting line-up after firing a double in last week's fightback against Oldham. Midfielder and skipper Paul Thirlwell will hope to play some part after returning to the bench as an unused substitute in the 3-3 draw against the Latics following a calf strain.