Striker Armstrong left out of Blues squad amid transfer interest
Luke Armstrong was left out of the Carlisle United squad today amid transfer interest in the striker.
Head coach Mike Williamson said the risk of getting injured and scuppering a move was behind the striker’s wish not to be involved.
The frontman, United’s record signing, has been linked with Motherwell in reports north of the border.
Williamson said he would be happy to keep Armstrong but cannot guarantee him regular action.
And the 28-year-old is exploring options to leave the Blues.
Armstrong was at Brunton Park on Saturday but not in the 18-man squad for the 1-0 defeat to Bradford City.
Asked amount his omission, Williamson told the News & Star: “It was just a mutual conversation about [the fact] there are things happening, possibilities for him.
“I just thought he thought the risk of coming in and playing, getting on the pitch and getting injured, would scupper it.
“So it was more of a mutual agreement that something's on the horizon, [although] not happened yet.
“He's someone who I'm happy to keep around, but he obviously wants as much game time as he possibly can and with us bringing in two number nines [Cedwyn Scott and Joe Hugill], he feels as though he's not going to get that.”
The Daily Record reported on Friday that Armstrong was a target for Scottish Premiership side Motherwell.
Asked about this speculation, and his willingness to allow Armstrong to leave, Williamson added: “Luke's been fantastic and he's a great lad. I've never said anything other than positive things about him.
“But when he wants to play week in, week out, you can't deny it – I can't facilitate that here.
“I can't say he's going to start every single game and he wants to be in a situation where he is. So that's up to him.”
Armstrong joined United last January from Harrogate Town in a six-figure deal which was understood to make him Carlisle’s most expensive signing ever.
He has scored three goals in 24 appearances this season, after scoring three in 21 in League One last term.
Williamson, meanwhile, said out-of-favour left-sided player Jack Robinson is also looking at several options ahead of a possible departure.
