Conor Fitzsimmons will miss Workington Town's League One Cup tie at rivals Whitehaven after aggravating an injury this week.

Fitzsimmons pulled up in training last weekend and has spent the last few days back down at his parent club Castleford Tigers.

The on-loan forward is receiving treatment and hopes to be back for the Challenge Cup tie at Newcastle the following weekend but won't be available for the short trip to the Recreation Ground on Sunday, kick-off 2pm.

Town fans could get a glimpse of new signing Phil Joseph in the derby encounter after he linked up with his new club.

Powerful prop Joseph missed the Ike Southward Memorial Trophy victory over Whitehaven on February 19 but he could be in contention to make his debut on Sunday.

Town's director of rugby Les Ashe says they will not be taking Whitehaven lightly, despite beating them 32-16 last time out.

"This is a derby and they are always tough games whatever the result," said Ashe.

"There can be a different outcome every time and it will come down to who turns up on the day and wants it more. Who wants to progress the most."

Ashe said the main result for his side would be to see the continuing progression the team has been showing throughout the pre-season.

"We just want to see improvement week on week," he added.

"Every game is important to us and we want to win every game that we play in.

"We just want to continue to progress whether that is in a cup competition or in the league table.

"That will allow us to build momentum which is key, as long as we can keep everyone fit and healthy.

"That will then hand the coach a real headache for selection but one he wants to have."

This is also the final game for the club's trialists to impress, if selected, before a decision is made on their future.