Peter Murphy says progress in the Scottish Cup would be a welcome bonus for Annan Athletic – even though the Galabankies are not relying on the financial boost it would provide.

Murphy’s side host Brechin City today hoping to progress to the third round. The Annan manager says a run in the competition could generate useful revenue for the Black and Golds.

But he said any such proceeds would be used responsibly by the club which does not spend beyond its means.

“In football terms the Scottish Cup is something all the younger Scottish players have grown up with, and it gives you that opportunity to progress,” Murphy said.

“For a club like ours to progress through one or two rounds, it would generate a lot more revenue for the club.

“That would be revenue which we haven’t budgeted for. Annan don’t overstretch their means with the budget we have and constraints we’ve got – we have to stick to that, whereas other clubs might spend a lot more money and then hope for that cup run.

“I’ve got my budget that I have to work towards, then if we can generate a bit more from a cup run then that all goes to help within that year for the club.

“I’m pretty sure we don’t bank or gamble on a cup run to try and get money back into the club that we’ve already outlaid.

“If we can add a bit more revenue, like we did last year with the play-offs and league position, it would help a club like ours dramatically.

“It’s not so much something we need, but it’s certainly something we would like.”

Today’s game is the first of a double-header with Brechin, who also visit Galabank in Scottish League Two next Saturday.

Murphy expects to have a bolstered squad this afternoon with last weekend’s international break giving certain players the chance to return from knocks.

Among those available today is captain Steve Swinglehurst, who had more than one reason to be absent recently.

“Swings has had an injury and he’s also had a little baby boy,” Murphy said.

“He missed out with injury for a game or two, then didn’t travel to Cove Rangers because his wife was due. As it turned out she didn’t have the baby that weekend so Steve missed the following weekend at Queens Park.

“Now he’s had his little baby he’s available again and we’re delighted to have him back.”

Goalkeeper Lyle Avci remains absent through injury as Murphy’s side look for a second win this season against Brechin, having beaten them 1-0 in the league on the opening day. “Brechin had a change of manager a few weeks ago and their results have improved slightly, so we’ve got to be aware that they’ll pose a different threat,” Murphy added.