While winning the FA Cup would put a much-wanted trophy in the Crystal Palace cabinet, co-chairman Steve Parish is also looking beyond any short-term joy of new silverware.

The 54-year-old wants the Eagles to start mixing with the football big boys on both a domestic and global front.

It could start on Saturday where victory would open the door to Europe and a greater stage to spread the word about Crystal Palace.

But Parish also knows that with winning trophies, Europe and a growth in stature, comes great pressure to splash the cash.

“The FA Cup does not have the same coverage as the Premier League, you cannot put our reaching the final into the same bracket as Leicester City’s achievement, but it is still massive,” he said.

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“Why are clubs big clubs, and why do they have such big following? Because they’ve won things.

“We want to be a winner. We want that trophy in our cabinet, we want that glory and we want that to resonate around the world.

“Of course, we would pick up supporters around the world because of it.”

He added: “Then there is Europe – it’s a magic thing for fans and players. Being a London-based club, having just won a cup and playing in Europe certainly will not hurt recruitment.

“It would be incredible to have European football under the lights at Selhurst Park.”

He added: “It is just about how it affects Premier League form, and that is what always puts people off.

“The other challenge is, if you do get in, you have to build a squad capable of managing it.

“Whenever we have played anyone coming back from a Thursday night game, you know you have a better chance.”

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