Paul Hurst hopes Shrewsbury hit the FA Cup jackpot
Paul Hurst believes a lucrative FA Cup third round tie can help Shrewsbury Town become an established League One club.
A potentially large jackpot could rest on tonight's draw, where Town could welcome or face a trip to English football's biggest names.
They secured a place in the third round stage through Saturday's professional 2-0 victory over League Two Morecambe.
Hurst, who has publicly spoken about his hopes to be backed to spend to help Town extend their remarkable league campaign, knows that a high-profile FA Cup venture could go some way to helping the bigger picture.
"As a club, whether it's us or anyone in League One – there may be a few exceptions – the extra finance that can be generated is gladly taken," said the boss.
"I relate it back to whether we start the season again with this group of players, is it realistic to think we'd be second and have had been first in the league? It's not.
"Can we take advantage of the situation moving forward? I've had some funds to spend, as has been said.
"For me we are still in a position where we've got to push and that's what I want us to do.
"I spoke from the start about raising expectations and hopes. I think I'm right in saying that when I came I first wanted to keep the club in League One, which we did.
"Then talk about really becoming an established League One side, that needs investment, it always does.
"If we could have a nice cup run or a really good draw then hopefully that can all help go towards making investment, whether to the squad or other things around the club to help it grow further.
"That can only be a win-win situation for everyone concerned."
Hurst edged towards the prospect of a 'more winnable' home tie in the third round, though was clearly tempted by a tussle with a Premier League big six side.
"I don't think you're really testing yourself against the big managers because if their team plays well then they win!" Hurst smiled.
"I guess you get to the third round to give a possibility of that draw happening.
"You don't want to give yourselves too many nightmares going into the game. It'll be great for the fans but the financial rewards it could bring will be great for the football club."
