CARLISLE United are keen to extend Max Crocombe's trial after the Oxford United goalkeeper impressed in the last week.

The 22-year-old has featured for the Cumbrians in friendlies against Bradford City and Penrith.

While there is still 12 months left on his U's contract, head coach Michael Appleton made it clear in June the New Zealander did not have a future at the club.

Speaking yesterday, Carlisle boss Keith Curle revealed Crocombe had made a good impression and they were looking to keep him for longer than the initial few days arranged with United.

He told the News & Star: "I've been impressed with Max.

"There are attributes in his game that I like - his physical stature, how he fills the goal and fills a shirt, and also how he's trained.

"Simon (Tracey, goalkeeper coach) has given me some positive feedback and we're in a situation now where I'm going to speak to Max and his representative to find out if there's room within negotiations to potentially extend his stay."

Carlisle begin their Sky Bet League Two campaign at Portsmouth on Saturday, but Curle suggested there was no need to rush into a decision on Crocombe before the weekend.