EVESHAM United are facing up to the possibility of their new £2million home not being ready in time for next season.

The Robins had been hoping to kick-off the 2011/12 campaign in their new 3,000 capacity ground in Cheltenham Road.

However, it looks unlikely that road access from an adjacent roundabout will be completed for the start of the Zamaretto League Premier Division campaign in August.

The club’s grand opening has already been affected, with a match against a Manchester United legends XI on Saturday, July 30, having been switched to Evesham High School, in Four Pools Road.

Talks are also under way to continue playing league fixtures at Worcester City’s St George’s Lane ground, where Evesham have been tenants for the past five seasons following their departure from Common Road.

Chairman Jim Cockerton said: “Due to circumstances beyond our control it is now very unlikely that the work will be finished in time for the game to go ahead at Cheltenham Road but, rather than cancel the event, we have changed the venue.

“The opening of the new ground will now come later.

“It is a real shame. With about 1,700 tickets already sold and, due to the huge interest from the community, we couldn’t cancel it altogether.

“We are very grateful to Evesham High School for agreeing to host the game and the evening dinner.

“We apologise for any inconvenience and disappointment caused by this news and would like to assure everyone that the event will still be a memorable day for all.”

Manager Paul West, whose side finished 12th in the Premier Divison last season, added: “It’s very frustrating and disappointing for everybody. It’s not the fairy tale we were hoping for but there’s no point in being negative.

“It doesn’t look likely that we are going to be in there early doors but we have got to think quickly on our feet.

“The positive thing is the ground is there.

“We have speent five years at Worcester so it wouldn’t hurt us for another month if that’s the case.

The Manchester United team is set to feature stars such as Bryan Robson, Sammy McIIroy, Denis Irwin, Andrew Cole and Frank Stapleton.

Meanwhile, midfield duo Mark Hands and Simon Fitter have both joined Redditch United, who have been relegated to Evesham’s league for the 2011/12 season.

Tickets for the Manchester United match can be bought from Mike Peplow on 07889-011539 or Cockerton on 07776-204223.