MK Dons striker Jermaine Easter is expected to return to the starting line-up when Carlisle United visit stadium:mk on Tuesday night.

Easter was only a substitute for the 2-1 defeat at Southend on Friday night after returning from international duty with Wales but after scoring 10 times for Dons this season he should earn a recall.

However, Sam Baldock did his chances of keeping his place no harm by scoring his first league goal of the season against the Shrimpers.

Luke Howell broke his nose at Roots Hall but has declared himself fit to start, while Stephen Gleeson is also in contention after international duty.

Jude Stirling is back in light training as he looks for fitness after his groin injury.

Carlisle hope to have Richard Keogh and Tom Taiwo available for the clash.

Both players had to be withdrawn during the 1-0 home defeat to Swindon through illness but boss Greg Abbott has his fingers crossed the duo will recover in time.

Tony Kane replaced Keogh and right-back and Scott Dobie came on for Taiwo and they remain on stand-by, although Dobie could come into contention for a starting place regardless of Taiwo's availability after the dismal showing against Danny Wilson's side on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Andy Cook has been ruled out for the season after undergoing surgery on a broken foot.

Carlisle's daunting trip to stadium:mk, where the Dons are unbeaten this season, could not have come at a worse time as they are in a wretched run of form having won just two out of the last 11 league games.