Coronation Street has confirmed rumours of a romantic spark between Abi Webster and her brother-in-law Carl.

The two characters come face-to-face for the first time in chaotic circumstances next week, as a heated clash soon leads to flirtation.

Show bosses have decided to introduce Kevin and Debbie Webster’s younger brother Carl for the first time.

Jonathan Howard has been cast in the role of Carl, who has been mentioned in scenes over the years but has never appeared on screen until now.

Next week, the drama plays out as Abi visits Freshco to pick up anti-sickness medication for husband Kevin.

Trouble brews when Carl tries to steal Abi’s parking space and causes her to prang her car.

Abi, who doesn’t recognise Carl as Kevin’s brother, immediately berates him for being selfish.

As the row gets out of hand, Abi shouts that her husband is suffering from cancer. She lashes out and gives Carl a bloodied nose.

Abi immediately regrets resorting to violence and spots an opportunity to make amends when Carl’s car won’t start.

When Abi steps in to help fix the vehicle, Carl seems charmed and brands her funny and gorgeous. Carl then ups the ante and invites Abi out for a drink, leaving her stunned.

Later, Abi arrives at the Bistro and tells Kevin, Debbie and Ronnie about her eventful day. She mentions the row she had with the other driver, but keeps quiet about the attraction between them.

After a quick trip to the ladies’, though, Abi returns to find Carl chatting to the others and finally discovers that he’s Kevin’s brother.

Put on the spot, will Abi come clean about Carl being the man she’d met earlier?

The on-screen flirtation follows recent press rumours which suggested that an affair could be on the cards for Abi and Carl this year.

Coronation Street airs these scenes on Friday, April 11 on ITV1 and ITVX.