Old Trafford to host London semi

The FA has announced that the FA Cup semi-final between Arsenal and Tottenham will be played at Old Trafford on Sunday, April 8.

The game will kick-off at 1.30pm, with Liverpool's match with Wycombe starting two-and-a-half hours later at Villa Park.

Today's decision on the venue for the all-London tie followed extensive consultations involving police forces in several parts of the country - as well as the clubs and their supporters' organisations.

The FA's executive director, David Davies, said tonight: "Even by recent standards, deciding on the venues for these matches was extremely difficult.

"Preliminary discussions took place even before yesterday's quarter-finals.

"Ultimately, with the backing of police forces in several parts of the country, supporters' groups and the clubs, we have reached a conclusion that will give as many fans as possible a chance to see these games."

A statement from Arsenal tonight described the decision as "the best compromise under the circumstances".

Barry Baker, secretary of the Arsenal Supporters' Club, said: "We feel the bigger the stadium, the better, and from the fans' point of view we have no problem."

Tottenham vice-chairman David Buchler said: "We recognise the inconvenience for travelling supporters, but the choice of Old Trafford ensures as many fans as possible from both clubs see what should be a terrific game."

Neville Addison of Tottenham's Supporters' Club said: "We would support any FA decision which gives genuine fans the best chance to get a ticket, whatever the travelling distance involved."

Chief inspector Tony Deacon, who is responsible for the Metropolitan Police's public order section, said: "We have had extensive talks with the FA on where to stage this big game.

"There were very limited options, and we are more than happy with the outcome."