Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed that they will continue playing games at Wembley for the remainder of the year because of more delays to their new stadium.
The Lilywhites' 62,000-seater home was originally due to open in September, only for safety issues to push back the opening date until later this year.
Further delays, which the club insist are 'out of their control', mean that Tottenham will now have to wait until 2019 before moving into the state-of-the-art venue.
A statement from club chairman Daniel Levy on Friday evening read: "There isn't an hour that goes by when I am not asked when we will be able to stage our first game at our new home. I wish I was able to confirm an exact opening date and fixture. However, in light of factors completely outside of our control, contractors missing deadlines and possible future unforeseen issues, we are naturally being cautious in respect of our timetable for our test events and official opening game.
"Whilst we are conscious of the need to keep pressure on our contractors to deliver as soon as possible, we are also acutely aware of how difficult the lack of clarity is for you, our supporters, to plan around games, particularly those at Christmas and New Year. In light of the above, and taking into account the restricted availability of manpower over the festive period, we have taken the decision to confirm today that all home games will be played at Wembley Stadium up to and including the game against Wolves on December 29.
"We know the continued delay is a source of immense disappointment to everyone and I can only continue to apologise for this - it is a sentiment felt by all of us. We have not stood still whilst work on the critical safety systems has been happening and we have sought to use the time to bring forward future works. Our investment has been supported by over £100m investment in transport infrastructure which will see the stadium and the local area served by one of the best public transport networks in the country - facilitating the creation of a new sport, leisure and entertainment destination in London.
"The delay in the stadium opening has made it possible for some track and station improvements to be brought forward due to the fact that previously non-available construction dates have become available for works. We have no doubt when open that this stadium will be one of the finest in the world - a leading example of British research and development delivering engineering and technological firsts that will be showcased globally. I hope that the end result will be something that will make you proud. We shall look to update you again in early December."
Tottenham, already scheduled to face Manchester City at Wembley next Monday, will now also host Chelsea, Southampton, Burnley, Bournemouth and Wolverhampton Wanderers at their temporary home.
Daniel Lewis
