The choice of venue followed consultation involving police forces in several parts of the country, as well as the clubs and supporters organisations.

And supporters from both north London clubs are delighted that the 67,500 capacity at Old Trafford means that as many fans as possible will get the chance to see their sides meet in the last four.

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

And a statement from Arsenal described the decision as "the best compromise under the circumstances".

David Buchler, vice-chairman of Tottenham, 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 the Tottenham Hotspur Supporters Club commented: "We would support any FA decision which gives genuine fans the chance to get a ticket, whatever the travelling distance involved."

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

"Preliminary discussions took place even before Sunday'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 the chance to see these games."