In the long run we'd have a better chance of progress back towards the championship having made a large amount of extra revenue from big pay days in the cup competitions.
In recent years after big pay days at Old Trafford - Exeter, Burton and Crawley have all progressed their clubs. Two of them currently above us in the pyramid as well.
Apologies for the delay DV, but history suggests otherwise.
Since 1990 twelve teams from the 3rd tier and downwards have played at Old Trafford in Cup matches. You conveniently selected the 3 from non-league who have progressed in the pyramid. You also conveniently omitted Halifax Town, York City and Wrexham who, despite their "Old Trafford payday" have since slipped down into non-league football.
Let's add Bury, Wallsall and Barnet who have made no progress at all.
Which leaves another 3........Bolton, Leeds and Fulham. Enough said about them.
I conclude that an "Old Trafford payday" does not seem to provide the added impetus that you seem to imagine.
Yes, two of your teams currently stand above us in the pyramid; actually all three were until Paolo's Northamptathon. I'd be inclined to put that down to our relegation rather than a sudden upturn in their fortunes.
Finally, and with reference to my mention of Southampton, I do feel that you missed my point: which was, that even teams seemingly deep in the shit can achieve without having to play at Old Trafford. Even if they have been bankrolled, like wot we are.