FA considering midweek Cup final

Feature: Cup in danger of losing lustre

The Football Association is considering moving the FA Cup final to a midweek date next season.

England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson wants a four-week break for his players before the 2006 World Cup in June and a midweek final may help achieve this.

But the FA insists moving the game from its normal slot is just one of the proposals under consideration.

"Nothing has been decided with regard to the date or time of the FA Cup final next season," said an FA statement.

The FA Cup final is a Saturday game and should stay on a Saturday From James Have your say on 606

"The FA board has agreed in principle for the domestic season to conclude on May 14, therefore allowing the England team the full four weeks' preparation that Fifa has granted to every nation.

"Key individuals are currently exploring several strong proposals that have been tabled to determine when the FA Cup final will be played.

"To re-emphasise, at this time, no decision has been taken."

The final, which the FA originally gained Fifa's agreement to host on Saturday 20 May, has been pencilled in as the inaugural game at the new £757m Wembley Stadium next year.

But the date is certain to be changed as Fifa wants all domestic competitions to be finished by 14 May to allow teams to prepare for the tournament in Germany, which starts on 9 June.

The Premier League says there is no chance of the season starting a week earlier because of the clubs' contractual agreements.