Wembley stadium was in the red to the tune of £53 million in pre tax losses in its first 18 months

After tax the national stadium lost £36.1 million and includes interest payments on the lone the Football Association owe on the £800 million arena.

Directors report 'satisfactory'

Wembley National Stadium Limited reported that the situation was 'satisfactory' with sales of tailored box seats critical to the group getting out of debt.

The report added:

"The loss of £36 million is significant although this includes £12 million payable to the FA, which will not recur and only nine months of operating income."