Arsenal, enjoying the opportunity to display their trademark passing game on Fratton Park's relaid pitch, looked almost like the home team on occasion.

BBC: SPORT | Football | Premiership | Portsmouth 1-1 Arsenal

"There are venues around the world which do stage concerts and non-football events successfully without the pitch having to be relaid, " added Roan.

BBC: Wembley pitch will be relaid indefinitely up to 2023

As both teams came to grips with Wigan's relaid pitch it was Liverpool who started the brighter, their initial attacking strategy to bypass midfield with both Jamie Carragher and Gerrard launching passes to try and release Torres.

BBC: Wigan 1-0 Liverpool

"They have got a new stand being built, they have just relaid the outfield, money is tight and obviously being one of the bigger earners at the club they have decided I'm a person they can do without, " added Hoggard.

BBC: Yorkshire release furious Hoggard