A decision on whether the Canvey v Southend FA Cup match takes place at the Gulls' Park Lane home could be made this afternoon (Thursday).

Canvey chiefs are keen to maintain home advantage for the December 9 second round tie but there have been calls for the game to be switched to a larger venue.

The islanders home could cater for around 3,000 fans although many more would want to see their heroes in action.

Gulls bosses have been pondering over whether to stage the game at Park Lane or possibly play it at another stadium, such as the Shrimpers' 12,306-seater Roots Hall home.

The final decision on where the game will be played rests with the Football Association.

A spokesman for Essex Police said officers had contacted Canvey officials about the match and were awaiting their decision on where they want to play the game.

"We have spoken to Canvey Island and have given them our views. We would see Roots Hall as the safer location," he said.

"They are considering that and are due to come back to us this afternoon. We are having a good dialogue with them and it is in their hands at the moment."

Castle Point Council director of leisure services Steve Packham said congestion around Park Lane would not be an issue as the Gulls had successfully catered for the 2,282 fans who watched the first round 4-4 draw against Port Vale. And he explained crowd safety was a police issue.

"The first time they did a big match at Canvey we gave them a bit of advice," Mr Packham said.

"The ground is on our land but they are an autonomous club and look after their own affairs.

"It is a coup for the borough to get a second round FA Cup tie. It has not happened before but whether it is played on Canvey is a police issue.

"From a supporter's point of view we would love to have it in Castle Point," he added.

By Paul Alton

Reporter's e-mail: paul.alton@newsquest.co.uk

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