By Jon Colman

Last updated at 12:24, Monday, 17 November 2008

Greg Abbott’s hopes of extending Ben Alnwick’s loan stay at Carlisle United have suffered a blow with Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp reportedly preparing to recall the ‘keeper.

Ben Alnwick

Spurs first-choice Heurelho Gomes was at fault for both Fulham goals in Tottenham’s 2-1 defeat at Craven Cottage at the weekend and Redknapp is said to have lost patience with the under-fire Brazilian.

Alnwick’s United loan runs out next weekend and Abbott said he was planning talks with Spurs over an extension. But the ‘keeper, who is ineligible for tomorrow’s FA Cup replay at Grays, may now have played his last game for the Cumbrians, opening the door for Ben Williams to resume as first-choice keeper.

Abbott, meanwhile, said Jennison Myrie-Williams – left out of Saturday’s squad – would now return to Bristol City after making only one league start in his two month stay.

And Hull midfielder John Welsh, who has another week-and-a-half remaining of his one-month spell with United, is unlikely to be kept on for an extended stint now skipper Paul Thirlwell has returned from injury.

Abbott’s first signing since John Ward’s departure – Sunderland left-back Michael Liddle – shone on his debut against Brighton and the caretaker is keen to make further additions to his ranks.

But he is also boosted by Michael Bridges’ return – the striker was back on the bench on Saturday – with Chris Lumsdon likely to be back in contention for the Cheltenham game after a four-month absence.

Abbott recalled Richard Keogh on defence at Josh Gowling’s expense against Brighton and said: “Josh has come in, we’ve conceded goals and haven’t won matches, and I wanted to make a positive change.

“Richard came in and battled away. He’s tough, wears his heart on his sleeve, gets into some wrong positions at times, but we needed his toughness and his steel when the chips are down. It was a justified selection.”

On Saturday’s 3-1 triumph, Abbott added: “I thought we played at real speed and attacked with ferocity.

“You can see the confidence spreading and let’s hope that win kick-starts us. The players have given us something to be optimistic about.”

First published at 11:23, Monday, 17 November 2008
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk