Carlisle City are back in the FA Cup - after a 42-year absence.

The Northern League Division One side's place in the famous competition this season has been confirmed.

And their entry into the cup ends a wait since 1980 for City to take part.

Not since the 1980/1 season, when they lost 4-1 in the preliminary round to Farsley Celtic, have the Carlisle outfit taken part in the legendary knockout competition.

They will learn their opponents when the extra preliminary round draw is made this Friday.

City's return to the cup after more than four decades is the latest positive step for the Gillford Park club after last season's dramatic promotion from Northern League Division Two.

Jim Nichols' side won the title on the final day and are now preparing for life in the higher division, where their opponents will include fellow Cumbrians Penrith AFC.

Penrith are also waiting to learn their cup opponents, with the clubs among 732 to enter the competition for the 2022-23 season.

Games in the extra preliminary round will take place on Saturday, August 6.

Early round draws for the FA Youth Cup, FA Trophy & FA Vase will also be published on Friday.

Carlisle City's first pre-season friendly on Saturday saw a 5-3 victory over Birtley Town thanks to goals from Jordan Holt (two), Arron Bradbury, Jordan Irving and Mikey Williamson at the Three Rives Health & Safety Consultancy Stadium.