Who wants to Bee a Cup millionaire?

The FA CUP has already provided a lifeline for Brentford, who have debts of £7million, and a shock result at Southampton on Saturday would precipitate the biggest payday in their 116-year history.

Already £500,000 in the black from this year's competition, Brentford can expect to at least double that amount by reaching the quarter-finals.

All four matches will be televised - generating a live broadcast fee of £265,000 - while prize money for a fifth-round win is £120,000.

With Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham on course for the last eight, the club would also likely bank another large cheque from their share of the gate receipts, which would be very useful. Brentford have reached the limit of £4.5m overdraft, which means they must find £300,000 in interest repayments every year to avoid being closed down.

Seven goals from Deon Burton have also helped the side to sixth in League One, in the play-off spots with games in hand on chasing clubs.

Chairman Eddie Rogers knows the Cup cash does not ensure long-term stability. He said: "I am thrilled at the performances of the team, but we are trying to provide a platform to move forward. There is still a long way to go to build the foundations to allow this club to grow."