Reo-Coker warns of the 107 steps to Cup heaven

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But, as the price of the new stadium went up roughly in proportion with Brian Barwick's blood pressure, the West Ham captain knew fairly early on last season that he had as much chance of being a Cup Final pioneer, as Carlos Tevez has of being voted Sheffield United's player of the year.

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There was, however, some consolation for Reo-Coker, who was the first England captain to lead a team out at the new £800million stadium when the builders finally departed. The 22-year-old midfielder was skipper of the England Under-21 team which drew 2-2 with Italy.

He recalled: "It was a big shame we didn't play in the first Cup Final at the new Wembley. It would somehow have been right since West Ham contested the first Final back at the old place in 1923.

"It was one of the most disappointing things about last season for me."

Reo-Coker never made it to the twin towers so it's difficult to make a comparison, but is he impressed by the new place?

He said: "It lived up to all my expectations and I will never forget playing there. The first thing you notice, when you're still miles from the stadium, is that arch. There is a sense of anticipation as soon as that comes into view. Then to walk through that tunnel and be the first England captain to cross that white line is an experience I will cherish for ever.

"To see all those seats, it's enormous and you could see why, if it was full of England fans, it could be quite daunting for the opposition.

I can only imagine what it will be like with a 90,000 crowd and two sets of passionate fans. It should be something special on Saturday."

The climb up to the Royal Box is also a little more challenging. "At the old place it was 39 steps, but now you have to climb 107 steps," said Reo-Coker.

"You walk up close by the side of the fans and then you go back inside and climb a few steel steps before emerging again.

"It's a long walk. If you win it won't be a problem but if you lose I can imagine it will seem like it takes forever."