"Having the experience of winning the Cup could be important," said the Irishman.
"We have guys here who have tasted success before and want it again. They also have the experience of playing on the big occasion.
"And I think that even for the young boys who maybe didn't play but were around the place, just being with Dundee United at the time can help them. They saw what it meant to everyone and will want a piece of that for themselves.
"It was massive for the club and the supporters so we'd love to do it for them.
"But we can't forget it's Celtic, the SPL leaders, who are unbeaten in a long time so nobody can look further than that.
"They are a great side but we feel we've got the players to go on and do it.
"I wouldn't imagine Celtic will have wanted this draw because we will make it tough for them so we'll wait and see what happens.
"It's a massive game. If we can beat the favourites we're through to the semi-finals.
"It's similar to the Rangers game in 2010 when they were going for a treble and people expected them to beat us.
"The one difference from then is Celtic were still in the Cup. The thinking in 2010 was to beat Rangers then try to avoid Celtic.
"That's not an issue this time. Rangers are out so if we can beat Celtic it blows the thing wide open.
"But it's a massive challenge because they have been great this season. We don't fear it, though. We know we're capable against anyone and I'd imagine the other teams left in the competition will be hoping we win."