Ward is looking to end the club's worst run of results since 2003

Carlisle United manager John Ward is hoping to add a loan signing to his squad this week.

Ward is keen to strengthen his side after seeing the Cumbrians go down to a fifth consecutive defeat at Rochdale in the Johnstone's Paint.

"I've got a call in with a club at the moment." Ward told BBC Radio Cumbria.

"They haven't got back to me yet so it is something I will chase up again but we are looking to improve the group if we can."

The Cumbrians' losing streak is their worst run of form since the 2003/04 season when they were relegated out of the Football League.

"The confidence isn't there at the moment." said Ward, who is playing down speculation over his position at the club.

"If I'm doubtful about my job then that reflects on everyone else, so I can't be. That's not my decision, that's down to other people to decide so you better ask elsewhere.

If I'm doubtful about my job then that reflects on everyone else, so I can't be John Ward

"My job here is to work hard and see if we can get this football club turned around."

Carlisle went out of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy on Tuesday night, losing 4-2 on penalties at Rochdale after the game ended 2-2 in 90 minutes.

"In terms of the 90 minutes, we didn't lose and after the recent run of four defeats that was really important to us." Ward said.

"When you are going through this kind of spell, every mistake gets magnified and it's just important that everyone, especially me, keeps their cool.

"We have to work very hard to get over this period and get the smile back on people's faces."

606: DEBATE I don't believe for one minute that the owners don't want the club to be promoted to the Championship as has been claimed Glostablue

The Cumbrians will be looking for their first away win since the opening day of the season when they take on Milton Keynes Dons on Saturday.

"We just need a break somewhere along the line," Ward said.

"It's not easy for me at the moment to sit down and say 'that's going to be my team'. There's still a lot of thinking for me to do along with my staff."

Carlisle are expecting to be without their captain Paul Thirlwell for the rest of the month after he suffered a calf strain in the Rochdale game.

Thirlwell missed most of last season with a similar injury.

"We'll have a look at it again but Paul's going to be out for a little while we believe." Ward said.

"Michael (Bridges) has a sore knee but he should train this week."