Arsenal have denied reports that they are set to scrap plans to move to a new 60,000 capacity stadium at Ashburn Grove.

They have admitted however that the project is running behind schedule and will still be playing at Highbury until at least 2005.

The club issued a statement saying: “Due to the complexity of the project, a number of delays have occurred. Not just on the construction of the stadium itself but also with legal, financial and property issues and transport infrastructure.

“The impact of these delays mean that the Club is now unable to relocate to Ashburton Grove for the start of the 2005/06 season as planned but will do so at the earliest possible date thereafter. All aspects of the project are being actively progressed, including construction work although non-critical labour will be slowed down temporarily.”