Before either team can start thinking about Cup Finals, the FA Barclays Premiership or anything else, they have the duty of taking part in the traditional curtain raiser to the new season.

Chelsea won their first FA Barclays Premiership title in 50 years last season and will be looking to kick off their centenary year in style.

FA Cup winners Arsenal return to the scene of their penalty shoot out triumph over Manchester United, hoping to make the last season at their famous Highbury home an historic one too.

And it is not too late for supporters of either side to buy tickets for what is likely to be a thrilling showdown when the sides kick-off at 3.00pm, on Sunday, 07 August.

For Chelsea supporters looking to see the likes of Shaun Wright-Phillips and co. in action, tickets are now on general sale at the rate of four per person, subject to availability.

They can be purchased via the official Chelsea website, www.chelseafc.com, or in person at their box office only. No sales are possible via the post or telephone.

The website also reports that with two London clubs making the same journey to Cardiff, road traffic is expected to be extremely congested and Chelsea are providing a special train service to Cardiff.

Arsenal also have tickets available on general sale, with prices ranging from £15 to £40, including some in the Family Enclosure.

Club members can make on-line bookings can through their official club website (www.arsenal.com), or by calling 0870 3800 232 (booking fees apply) and non-members can go to www.ticketmaster.co.uk (booking fees also apply), or call 0870 906 3366.

Tickets are also available for purchase at Arsenal’s stadium box office, which is open from 9.30am to 5pm Monday to Friday.

Both websites also have comprehensive details on how to get to the ground and further information and details about corporate packages are available at www.millenniumstadium.com.