Carlisle United boss Keith Curle hopes to keep hold of Newcastle United pair Alex Gilliead and Macaulay Gillesphey.

The Under-21 duo originally joined the Cumbrians on 28-day emergency loan deals last month, which expire next week.

Speaking to the club's official website, Curle said: “(Managing director) John Nixon and I have spoken to (Newcastle assistant head coach) Paul Simpson a couple of times about Alex and Macauley Gillesphey.

“Paul has taken it to the people at his football club.

“They're more than happy for both players to continue their learning curve with us because they know they're being well looked after.

“We send weekly reports on how well they're doing and we have to say that both players have been a huge credit to Newcastle United with the way they've conducted themselves.

“We'll keep talking and we'll find out where we're at over the course of next week."