Keeper Adam Collin admits he would love another memorable Carlisle United FA Cup run - nine years after he started his Blues career with one.

United go to Crewe today hoping to reach the second round of the famous competition, with the potentially lucrative third round then in sight.

It was in 2009/10 that Collin began life as a United player with a run that took them to Everton’s Goodison Park, which saw Carlisle valiantly beaten 3-1 by David Moyes’ side.

The Cumbrian says that is an example of where the cup can take you.

“It was a great run - going to Everton to play in front of a packed house was fantastic and we almost came away with a result,” Collin said.

“It’s a great competition to play in whatever your level. I always enjoyed it when I was non-league [with Workington Reds] as well.

“It’s one we’re looking forward to. You just need a couple of good rounds then you’re in with the big boys and glamour ties.

“It would be great for us and the fans if we can have a day out at somewhere that’s not usual on the calendar.”

Manager John Sheridan looks set to be without striker Ashley Nadesan today with Fleetwood unwilling to allow him to play for the Blues in the cup.

United’s other four loanees, though, can play, while Hallam Hope could return from injury.

With £36,000 prize money riding on the tie a cup run can also prove a major financial boost, but Collin says that aspect will not be on the players’ minds.

“We just go out there and play football,” he said. “The financial side is for the guys in the offices to worry about.”

On today’s test against the Railwaymen, 33-year-old Collin added: “One weekend they can beat anyone in the league and the next they can be potential relegation candidates. It’s how they are year-in, year-out by the looks of things.

“We’ve got to go there and just worry about ourselves, and believe we can win the game.

“You can sense the atmosphere change in the dressing room after last weekend’s win against Newport - the lads are much happier.”

Collin also said that, while the cup is important, United should not become sidetracked by it at a time they are trying to boost their league form.

“You often see teams who have good cup runs find that their league form can dip,” he said. “It’s important we treat this game with full respect then get straight back to business the weekend after in the league.”

Collin was among United’s top performers in the 3-2 win against Newport but said he will not take his good form for granted.

“I’m pleased with how I’m playing but it can easily change, being a goalkeeper,” he said. “You just have to make one mistake and you’re suddenly the bad guy.

“I’m happy with how it’s going, just trying to be as consistent as I can.

“When I was here first time, and throughout my career, I’ve been more critical of myself – but I’m more chilled out these days and take the rough with the smooth.

“I still want to be eight or nine out of 10 every game but if I’m not I won’t beat myself up about it.”

Collin, meanwhile, is now working under a new goalkeeping coach after United drafted in Craig Wight.

That follows a month without a permanent replacement for Dan Watson - a period in which the experienced Collin, who has his own goalkeeping school, has stepped in.

“I’ve taken a few sessions while the management team have tried to get us somebody in,” he said.

“If we had two young keepers here it would be a different situation, but I’ve coached myself so could take a couple of sessions when needed.

“I quite enjoyed taking a few sessions - we just got on with it.

“Now Craig’s in we can settle into a good working pattern and kick on.”

Collin added of the new coach: “He is very energetic, very keen and very passionate about his role. In the sessions we’ve had so far he came over very well and hopefully he’ll be good to work with in the future.

“Myself, Louis [Gray] and Craig are going to work day-in, day-out now, and on game days, so we’ll have that good working relationship moving forward.

“He’s going to come in with his own ideas and sessions, while Louis is behind me pushing me now, and that’s why he brought him in - it makes for a healthy working environment.”