Reggie Lambe has backed Carlisle United to go that “extra step” and achieve promotion to the EFL League One this season.

Carlisle finished sixth in League Two last term to make the play-offs but lost 6-5 on aggregate to Exeter City in the semi-finals.

Lambe, who scored eight goals in 47 appearances for Carlisle last season, believes the squad has improved since then and that competition for places will bring out the best in the players.

“It is very much a basis from last season to go one better,” Lambe told the News & Star. “I think we could have gone all the way last season, barring some injuries and transfers that ruffled up the team.

“I think, if everyone stays fit and consistent this season, with all the competition we have for places, we can go that extra step. I think everyone will want to be in the team and will want to raise their standards. That is a good base for everyone to want to push on this season.”

Lambe has had a shorter preseason than most of his team-mates, with the 26-year-old captaining Bermuda in two friendly games away to Grenada last month. “I’m glad to be back,” Lambe said. “It was a nice, short break I had, I had international games to play as well, and it is nice to be back among the boys, getting a bit of fitness that I need after having a few weeks off.”

The winger was involved in both of Carlisle’s preseason victories last week, playing in the first half of United’s 5-0 win away to Penrith on Tuesday, before he featured in the second half at Workington Reds. United had begun their preseason campaign with a 4-0 victory at Carlisle City last weekend.

“The games have gone well so far; everyone just needed to get their minutes up, get running around, get some match fitness in,” Lambe added. “That has been good for us.”

Keith Curle, the Carlisle manager, has strengthened his team with the signings of goalkeeper Jack Bonham on loan from Championship side Brentford along with former Bury pair Kelvin Etuhu and Hallam Hope.

“I think they are brilliant signings,” Lambe said. “They have come together in the squad well and I think they are good additions to the team.”

Experienced players Jabo Ibehre, goalkeeper Mark Gillespie and Michael Raynes have been among the club’s highest-profile departures with the trio moving to Cambridge United, Walsall and Crewe Alexandra respectively.

Carlisle will be in action again today against Blyth Spartans at Croft Park in their fourth game in seven days.