The 2006 FA Cup final, set to be the inaugural game for the revamped Wembley Stadium, could be staged on a Wednesday night instead of its traditional Saturday.

The Daily Mail said yesterday FA officials were considering the switch to give England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson four weeks' preparation with his squad before the 2006 World Cup finals.

An FA statement said English soccer's governing body was looking at different dates to stage the final, which normally takes place on the weekend following the end of the league season.

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

"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 for the World Cup that FIFA has granted to every nation.

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

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

The Daily Mail said the FA were looking at Wednesday, May 10 to stage the final, 10 days earlier than the original scheduled date of Saturday, May 20.

Moving what will be the 125th final since the competition began in the 1871-72 season to a Wednesday would be sure to anger traditionalists.

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