Harrogate Town v Carlisle United – Striker Mark Beck back in contention to face former club

The 27-year-old striker, who came through the Cumbrians’ academy and played 66 league games for them between 2012 and 2015, has not featured since early December due to the recurrence of a troublesome hamstring issue which he first picked up all the way back in November 2019.

But, having returned to group training with the rest of Harrogate’s squad a couple of weeks ago, he has forced his way back into contention.

And, given the extra dimension that a 6ft 4in targetman can bring, Town chief Simon Weaver is glad to have Beck back at his disposal.

“Mark Beck is returning to the squad tomorrow. He used to play for Carlisle, so obviously he’s got a point to prove,” the Harrogate manager said. “He’s very hard to play against. We recognised that when he was at Darlington, that’s why we wanted to bring him in.

“Sometimes you do need to go long. We all want to play like Manchester City, but even they scored from a direct ball yesterday [Saturday] didn’t they?

“He is a real handful and he has just been unlucky with the season he has had.

“You only have to look at the Portsmouth [FA Cup] game last season when he’d had a run of games, was scoring goals and was an absolute beast against a top League One outfit. We know what he is capable of, he just needs a bit of luck – a run of games and to avoid injuries.”

Last six games: Harrogate Town LWWLDD; Carlisle United LWWDLW

Referee: S Stockbridge (Tyne & Wear)

Last time: N/A.

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