Keith Curle admits Hartlepool's former Carlisle United contingent will add extra spice to tonight's big showdown at Brunton Park.

The encounter, which could be pivotal to the Blues' play-off hopes, brings the likes of Billy Paynter back to Carlisle.

Coach Tony Caig, who has a long history with United, will also be in the Pools' ranks.

Curle believes the former Carlisle men will be keen to put one over on his side (kick-off 7.45pm).

But the Blues manager insists he is not changing his preparations as a result of their presence in the opposition ranks.

Curle said: "Hartlepool have got previous members of staff and previous players coming back.

"They will want to spoil the party. Excellent - it all adds to the mix.

"What we've got to do is focus ourselves.

"It won't be any different. The respect we show them will be exactly the same [as other teams], and our due diligence will be the same."

United could go a point outside the play-off places if they win their game in hand tonight.

But they must halt the impressive form of the Monkey Hangers, who are unbeaten in seven under Craig Hignett - including five wins - as they have pulled clear of relegation danger.

Paynter, who fell out with Curle during his time at Carlisle last season, has scored 15 goals for the visitors this campaign, including two penalties in their win against Mansfield on Saturday.

The striker also netted from the spot in August's encounter at Victoria Park before Carlisle came back to win 3-2.

Tonight's game could also see United's Charlie Wyke and Antony Sweeney face their former club.

Curle, meanwhile, must decide whether to recall Louis Pedro to his squad after omitting the winger for Saturday's defeat at Portsmouth.

United's manager said this week's double-header at Brunton Park - they host Mansfield on Saturday - should whet the appetite of supporters.

Curle said: "They are absolutely massive games and that's what we're here for - we want big games.

"This is a big night and I don’t think any Carlisle supporter could ask for better.

"All I will say is I want every single Cumbrian who's got any affiliation with the club to come and get that ball over Hartlepool's line.

"It can happen. It's happened before. The fans have got behind us and stuck with us."

Alex McQueen could rejoin Carlisle's squad tonight but Steven Rigg (groin) is again likely to miss out, while Pools could name an unchanged side for a sixth straight game.

Visiting midfielder Michael Woods is hoping to shake off a dead leg.