"I am a big football fan and I was hoping United would reach the Worthington Cup final so I could see them play in Cardiff in February," he said.

"I've enjoyed playing at some of the greatest rugby stadia around the world but there is nowhere to beat the Millennium Stadium.

"The atmosphere is quite special and you get the feeling that the fans are almost sitting on top of you.

"It will be a great setting for a football cup final. This announcement that the FA Cup final is to be played in Cardiff is a huge boost for Wales and a credit to the people who built the stadium."

Former Wales manager Terry Yorath admits he would love to see a final between Sir Alex Ferguson's side and Liverpool.

"I just hope we get something like that, so it really is a huge occasion," he said.

"The crowd almost hangs over the pitch and the atmosphere is going to be electric.

"Being from Cardiff myself, I hope that everything goes well as it is a great city and can now boast a great stadium."

With Wembley being re-built - it is expected to re-open for business in 2004 - the next three FA Cup finals and three FA Charity Shield matches will be staged at the Millennium Stadium.

The Football League has also agreed to stage its five annual showpiece finals at the Welsh national stadium.

The Worthington Cup final will be the first event to be staged there on February 25.

Also taking place in Cardiff will be the Nationwide League play-off finals and the LDV Vans Trophy final.

Both football authorities have a five-year option on using the stadium after protracted negotiations with the Welsh Rugby Union and officials of the Millennium Stadium.