Abbott's boys so optimistic.

CARLISLE could welcome back on-loan Tom Taiwo just in time for the visit of Brighton today.

The midfielder, recently suffering from an Achilles injury, has impressed this season and is fit to return for the League One fixture at Brunton Park.

United will go in to the game on the back of last week's 3-0 home win against Tranmere, and manager Greg Abbott is understandably upbeat ahead of the clash.

"We feel in much better shape now and in a much better frame of mind," said the Carlisle boss (pictured above).

"We're optimistic and we need to make sure the fans share in our optimism."

Abbott issued a rallying call to supporters in midweek and he is hoping they can turn out in force for today's game after last week's first home win.

"The fans are vital to us. Economically, the times are hard, but we're hoping the fans will come out as long as they see an improved performance here."

United are still without Richard Keogh (ankle) and Simon Lakeland (knee), but they have an otherwise fully fit squad. Albion will fly north after the first win of their campaign last week, a 1-0 victory over Tranmere at the Withdean Stadium.

The Seagulls have made a slow start to the season, picking up just five points from their opening six games, and United will be looking for victory against a side they beat twice last season.

"There's a completely different mindset from last season to this season," commented Abbott.

"Everything's positive and we can be really confident of getting a result."

TURNER CONFIDENT OF A POOL VICTORY HARTLEPOOL will look for their first home points of the season as they face a Wycombe Wanderers side yet to secure a point on their travels, writes JAMIE GAVIN.

Something has to give in the League One clash and Pool will be hopeful they can show a glimpse of their away form, which has seen them pick up seven points on the road without conceding a single goal including an impressive 3-0 victory at Oldham last Friday.

"Obviously it's important to get a win at home, but I'm pleased with the way we've started," said manager Chris Turner. "The boys have got no worries playing at home and - if they play like they can play - we can beat anyone in this league."

Pool have no fresh injury worries this week and they sit in 14th spot ahead of the game.

Newly-promoted Wycombe are one of the early stragglers, with only one win this season under boss Peter Taylor.

And Turner will be no doubt hoping that a home win against the Wanderers can kickstart Hartlepool's season. "I never go into any game expecting a win," he said. "But I'm confident we can get the three points."

CAPTION(S):

Jamie Gavin