John Sheridan says his long history with Oldham means nothing today as Carlisle United bid to get back on track.

The Blues' boss this afternoon goes back to the club where he has had three different managerial spells and also ended his playing days.

It makes Sheridan a highly familiar face to Latics fans.

But he claims old connections will not be on his mind today - only the job in hand.

"I'm going back to win a game [and get] three points," he said. "I'm not really bothered about Oldham.

"We're on a sticky wicket at the moment. We need to go and win the game to get ourselves in and around where we want to be."

United are hoping to bounce back from successive home defeats when they take on Frankie Bunn's side.

The Cumbrians' recent record on the road is better than their latest efforts at Brunton Park.

Sheridan hopes they can again give their travelling fans a positive afternoon, even if their results at home have left him frustrated.

"Our record at the moment away from home is better than at home, but that shouldn't be the case," United's manager said.

"We should be winning games and then hopefully, going with that feeling of winning your home game, that you can get something away from home.

"It's tough when you're not winning your home games, and you've got to try and win away, which is always difficult.

"If we'd gone [to Oldham] after points from our last two home games we'd have had a really good following. But I still expect us to have a good following."

Sheridan's main injury concerns remain Richie Bennett (groin) and Jamie Devitt (shin).

Centre-half Anthony Gerrard is set to face the club he left in the summer under controversial circumstances.

Mike Jones could also face his former side.

Sheridan, meanwhile, admits he is glad to have loan forward Jerry Yates back among his options.

The Rotherham man is available after serving a two-match ban following his recent red card at Bury.

"We have missed Jerry, because he's been a part of the team when we were doing well," Sheridan said.

"He gives us that endeavour and that workmanlike attitude.

"He's a good player to have in your team, so we'll welcome him back."

Sheridan admitted United "have to be better" for what he expects will be a "tough" game this afternoon.

Oldham are unbeaten in four games, their last three outings having been draws.

Bunn's eighth-placed side are five places but just one point above the Blues.