Whiting: FA Cup prize money 'hugely significant' for Cobblers

Writing in his programme notes ahead of Friday's clash with Derby County, Cobblers chief executive James Whiting said the prize money earned from this season's FA Cup run is 'hugely significant' for the club.
James WhitingJames Whiting
James Whiting

The Cobblers have so far picked up over £600,000 in prize money and broadcast fees and could yet add to that ahead of next week's replay at Pride Park.

Winger Mark Marshall became Town's first January signing on Saturday and Whiting confirmed the extra injection of cash will enable manager Keith Curle to operate with a healthier transfer budget this month, but the money also benefits the club in other departments.

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In his notes for Friday's matchday programme, Whiting wrote: "We are delighted and proud to be the last League Two club left in the competition.

"As has been widely reported, we receive a £250,000 prize for that being the case. The money generated by this cup run has been hugely significant for the club and the income will help us in many ways in our rich and varied work both on and off the field and supporting the community of Northamptonshire.

"But we operate with a very competitive playing budget to give us the best possible chance of success and in doing so we budget to lose money each season.

"This income will help limit those losses, benefitting the overall health of the club, while also allowing for additional budget to be made available in the current transfer window.

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"Talking of the transfer window, there is a week to go and our work continues. Keith does have the opportunity to add to the squad.

"The plan this month is very much about carefully selected additions and not just quantity, and Keith is willing to be patient to try and secure his targets.

"Of course, that does mean we face tough competition for these players, and at the time of writing talks were ongoing with clubs, agents and players.

"Because of the progress we have made, whereas in previous years we have often seen wholesale changes in January, this time around we can be far more patient and precise.

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"January can be a difficult window to do business in, but we won't be distracted from our plans and our belief that we will only do business that is right for the club."

Speaking about Friday's big cup tie, Whiting added: "The league is our bread and butter of course, that is where we will be judged, but nights like tonight are a fantastic reward for Keith Curle, his staff, the players, the chairman and the directors, our staff and volunteers and of course you, our supporters.

"A lot of planning and organisation has gone into tonight's game to ensure things run as smoothly as possible and we very much hope that you enjoy your evening and we will see you back here supporting the Cobblers again in the future."