National Football Centre going for a Burton?

The proposed National Football Centre for Burton-on-Trent could be scrapped if the FA decides it cannot finance the project.

The scheme, which is expected to cost in excess of £70m, was originally unveiled a year ago, and was scheduled for completion in 2004. The new 350-acre centre would feature a full size indoor pitch as well assorted outdoor grass and synthetic pitches with sports medicine facilities and a tournament arena.

Some commentators in the media have suggested that the expense of committing to the National Stadium at Wembley has left the FA's finances in a precarious position.

A release from the FA following November's main board meeting, 'categorically denied recent press reports that the FA's finances were 'in crisis'', adding that an 'entirely normal' process of priority and budget review had been undertaken after the departure of chief executive, Adam Crozier.

The statement hinted that the plans may well be put on ice, announcing, 'the FA's board will be taking some more time to ensure that, against a range of pressing and important commitments, the FA is in a position to fully commit to the centre.'

Acting chief executive, David Davies, subsequently reiterated the organisation's support for the centre and it is believed that alternative cost-cutting measures, such as the FA moving to offices at the new Wembley Stadium, will be implemented.