Barrow are in the FA Cup third round for the first time since 1991

Barrow joint-manager Darren Sheridan is hoping his team's FA Cup run can influence the decision to turn full-time next season.

The Blue Square Premier side, who were drawn away at Middlesbrough in Sunday's third round draw, are currently operating as a part-time club.

Sheridan told BBC Radio Cumbria: "We've had a chat with the chairman.

"I'm sure we can look into maybe going full-time next year. It will help the club massively."

The Bluebirds pocketed �105,000 from their televised 2-1 second-round victory over League Two Brentford.

They are waiting to hear whether their trip to the Riverside will be one of the third-round ties chosen for television coverage.

"We've just got to go out and enjoy the experience because there might not be another day like it," Sheridan said.

Fellow joint-manager Dave Bayliss believes all the pressure will be off Barrow when the two sides meet on 3 January.

"If Middlesbrough play to their form and strengths then we've got no chance, to be totally honest," Bayliss said.

"But sometimes you can get days when everything goes right for you."

Bayliss believes the success of teams like Histon, Eastwood, Forest Green and Barrow in this season's competition is further proof of the strengths of the non-league game.

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"Havant went and pushed Liverpool very hard at Anfield last season. We're going to do the same."

Barrow last reached the FA Cup third round in 1991 when they lost 1-0 at Bolton Wanderers.

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