Skipper itching for return

Carlisle skipper Paul Thirlwell has spoken of his frustration as he aims for a return to action from long-term injury early next month.Thirlwell has missed the last six matches after damaging medial knee ligaments during the first minute of his side's 1-0 win at Sheffield Wednesday in September.Thirlwell told the News & Star: "I remember trying to turn as the ball went past me, but my boots stuck in the ground and I felt a pop."The fact I was able to get through the game meant I felt it could be ok, but it got very sore as time went on and I did start fear the worst."If it had been a cruciate, you are looking at six to nine months out. I've never had a knee injury before so this was new territory for me."Fortunately it wasn't as serious as that, but it's still been a very frustrating time."