FA Cup final as it happened

1. Use highlights tab to watch key action
2. Arsenal retain title - 12th FA Cup win
3. Biggest win in final since 1994
4. Get involved: How good were Arsenal? #getcarriedaway

Thanks for your company today - 12 solid hours of build-up and action culminating in an emphatic Arsenal win.

We are off for a lie down - but stick with Lionel Messi and co into the night here.

Adios!

Spanish Copa del Rey

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher: "Watching Barcelona is liking watching our top teams but with the fast forward button pressed down permanently."

Messi magic!

Spanish Copa del Rey

The great man has done it again.

Lionel Messi weaves past four challenges to open the spring in the Copa del Rey final, a stunning goal even by his own ludicrous standards.

Follow that game here.

Join the debate at #getcarriedaway

Will Carrick: Wandering the streets of Sydney still loving our win! Bed can wait!!!

Who's in Europe next season?

Chelsea secured their fourth Premier League title by beating Crystal Palace 1-0 on 3 May. They will be joined in the Champions League group stage by Manchester City and Arsenal, while fourth-placed Manchester United will enter the preceding play-off round.

Tottenham qualified for the Europa League by virtue of their fifth-place finish, and they will be joined by Liverpool, whose sixth-place finish means they inherit the Europa League slot awarded to Capital One Cup winners Chelsea. They go straight into the group stages.

Seventh-placed Southampton take the third Europa League slot after Arsenal's FA Cup victory over Aston Villa. They enter the competition in the third qualifying round.

England was also granted an extra Europa League place as one of the top three countries in Uefa's Respect Fair Play league - which goes to West Ham, who will enter the first qualifying round in early July after topping the Premier League's fair play table.

Spanish Copa del Rey

Neymar has volleyed in a game of a goal for Barcelona - but the offside flag was raised.

Goalless after 10 minutes - follow the game here.

Mesutozil

"We did it again!" is Mesut Ozil's simple but eloquent twitter message. I was trying to decipher what the tattoo on Ozil's shoulder is during these celebrations.

It's either a massive, off-blue owl, or someone lifting the World Cup trophy.

Spanish Copa del Rey

Barcelona's treble bid has reached phase II - the Copa del Rey final.

Sidlowe

They face Athletic Bilbao tonight and it's just about to kick off.

Follow the action here.

'We have to forget about today'

Aston Villa captain Fabain Delph: "Arsenal showed why they deserved the win. We were up against it, we tried to dig deep but their quality shone through and we struggled.

AP

"Arsenal will admit that's one of their best performances of the season. We didn't impose ourselves as much as we can do but they kept the ball well and tired us out.

"The manager said that we had it in us to cause an upset but we couldn't find the performance. But a few weeks ago we would have snapped your hand off to stay in the league and get to this final. Now it's important that we get a winning mentality.

"We have to forget about today, some players will come through the door to strengthen us and I am sure we will get better and better."

Join the debate at #getcarriedaway

BBC

It's only 18 days until next season's fixtures are released. Give us a break!

It was a busy few seconds, never mind months.

Tim Sherwood has just said:" Some of the boys have been told they will not be here next year and they can go and find other clubs."

Overall you'd have to say that Tim Sherwood's stint in charge of Aston Villa has been a success.

But he spoke about rebuilding the team, and with question marks over the future of Christian Benteke, Ron Vlaar, and even the owner, it could be a very busy few months ahead.

Villa's 'losing mentality'

More from Aston Villa manager Tim Sherwood: "It's been a gradual process since I've come in here. We've stayed in the division, but we came up short today because Arsenal were better. We have a losing mentality at this football club. They've been scraping relegation for the past four years, that can't be right.

"We need to try and change that, either by bringing in new personnel or making these players winners. It's not just new additions to the squad also getting some of the players we do have to play in a different way, to change the mentality of a few of them.

"We gave the fans nothing to cheer about today but I can promise them it will get better. We don't want to be scraping relegation next season."

'A kick in the privates'

Aston Villa manager Tim Sherwood: "I can't make any excuses for that today, Arsenal were too good for us. We couldn't impose ourselves on them or nullify what they had. They've got some outstanding footballers and too much quality for us.

PA

"When you've had your entire midfield booked and your right-back, obviously you're walking a tight-rope. It's a learning curve for us, you have to learn and we need to build a new team. They need to learn how to be winners. Of course we believed we could win this but you have to say we came up short today.

"Alexis Sanchez scores an outstanding goal, there's not much you can do about that one, but we were lucky not go behind earlier, we were holding on a bit. But to concede again from a set piece is gruelling. You almost don't mind if they open you up but to be honest you have to take your medicine at 3-0 and then to concede one at the death was a kick in the privates."

Pundit wars on the Wembley pitch as Steve McManaman, Ian Wright, Andy Townsend, Phil Neville, Danny Murphy and Dan Walker converge on the pitch.

The off-air consensus is that Villa failed to turn up and it was a shame with regards to to the spectacle. That, and Danny Murphy's ever-improving golf handicap.

The Arsenal players have posed for the 'changing room, tops off, trophy out' photo as Ivan Gazidis makes a brief speech.

Robert Pires is in the changing room too. For old time's sake.

'Premier League title is the target'

Arsenal goalscorer Olivier Giroud: "The Premier League title is the target. Hopefully we will be there. Without the injuries and if we keep this squad with one or two more players then we will have a good chance to challenge for the title."

'We have made history'

Arsenal club captain Mikel Arteta, who missed the game through injury: "There is no better way to of finish the season. We have made history today, the *most successful team in England. Now we go for the big one next season and hopefully more trophies will come. We have great momentum."

*Arsenal have won 12 FA Cups - more than anyone else.

See the highlights

BBC

The match highlights are in. Click the 'highlights' tab at the top to watch the best of the action.

Tim Sherwood was locked in the dressing room with his Villa side for a long time after the final whistle but he's out now to face the cameras.

"They need to learn to be winners" he says. He looks utterly disappointed and perplexed. He's very honest, as usual.

Full reaction to come.

The Arsenal end remains full as the fans celebrate. Olivier Giroud is the latest to peddle the 'we will win the title next year' line.

#getcarriedaway

Former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry has tweeted: "Congratulations to all my boys Arsenal. Fantastic performance."

Southampton in Europe

James Ward-Prowse

Arsenal's win this afternoon means that Southampton are confirmed as being in the Europa League next season.

Martin Keown

Former Arsenal and Aston Villa defender on MOTD

"Last time Arsenal won the FA Cup back-to-back in 2003 they went on to go unbeaten in the league the following season."

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is the domestic season wrapped up.

Just the Champions League final, Women's World Cup, Copa America, Under-21 championship, European qualifiers, pre-season friendlies, signings, and weeks and weeks of speculation to come...

The Aston Villa end is completely empty. And anybody with a smart remark about that must not have been in that scenario.

Euro latest

German Cup

It's Jurgen Klopp's farewell from Borussia Dortmund today and it's not going to plan.

They took an early lead but Wolfsburg are now 3-1 up in the German Cup final.

Follow that game here.

'We started on the front foot'

Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker: "We deserved this today. We played on the front foot from the start and that makes a massive difference.

"Last year we suffered in the first-half but today we scored regularly and gave we what we needed.

"It is a good way to finish off the season and I can look forward to my first holiday since retiring from international football. Hopefully we will start next season on the front foot but first we celebrate this victory."

Getty Images

Prince William does his best to look pleased as Arsenal take the Cup from him. Per Mertesacker and Mikel Arteta link hands to lift the famous old trophy - the foot-and-a-half height difference causes some problems but the trophy is aloft!

AFP/GETTY

Alexis Sanchez flies the Chile flag over the Royal Box.

Reuters

Here come the Arsenal players up the steps. Injured captain Mikel Arteta has done a John Terry and is up there in full kit.

Arsenal's man of the match Santi Cazorla: "We played very well, we played with intensity and if we play like that we will get the title next year."

"We are lucky Alexis Sanchez plays for us."

Stat attack

Arsenal have joined Wanderers, Blackburn Rovers and Tottenham in retaining the FA Cup on multiple occasions.

'Villa did not turn up'

Dion Dublin on MOTD

Former Aston Villa striker

"Aston Villa were not good enough. They gave the ball away, they looked tired, leggy and all over the place.

"Fans had so much hope, came in their droves but Villa's players did not turn up, they did not handle the occasion or quality of Arsenal."

PA

The Arsenal players have obviously had a team meeting. The 'we will try and win the title next year' message is hitting home hard and fast.

'We really wanted this one'

BBC Radio 5 live

Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey tells BBC 5 Live: "It's a great feeling. We really wanted this one. Winning back-to-back FA Cups is not an easy thing to do and we have done it. Now we can look forward to next season and kick on and give it a real go in the Premier League."

BBC

What next for this man? Not usually short of words, Tim Sherwood must come out firing after that.

The Villa players go up to collect the medals nobody wants...

The officials go up the steps to collect their keepsakes. Referee Jon Moss gets some grief from the Villa end.

'We are so happy'

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger: "We have shown that we are a real team and can deal with pressure. I congratulate the players, the staff and the fans. We are so happy tonight.

"I had a difficult week to pick the team. But when confidence and sprit is so good it helps. Look, I am very proud. Our club is doing well and if I can personally do well then it's even better.

"I have two more years of my contract and my hunger is great. I want to do well."

'The Premier League is the target'

Arsenal goalscorer Theo Walcott said: "It was amazing. Any win is fantastic but the manner we did it was very good. We kept a clean sheet and we knew if we did that we would score goals and win the game.

"I want to thank the manager for picking me and having faith in me and hopefully I repaid him. I missed all this last year. To be part of it this year is a dream come true. My family are here and I have worked so hard, as has everyone to do this. I also want to thank the physios and everyone who has looked after me. This is for them.

"We just need to start well in the Premier League next year. This is one of the best squads we have had at Arsenal so we should be achieving more. But that's two FA Cup wins now so the Premier League has to be the next target for us."

'Men against boys'

Alan Shearer

Former England striker on MOTD

"It was men against boys for 90 minutes. Arsenal were outstanding. The way they moved the ball, their off the ball movement, the speed, their goals were outstanding, they thoroughly deserved it."

Santi Cazorla and Theo Walcott have ticked the media box - they've thrown us forwards to next season already.

Are you listening Arsenal fans? They both say that the title fight is coming next season...

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer from Wembley

"A Wembley of two halves. Arsenal's half packed with joyous fans while thousands of Aston Villa fans have made an early bid to beat the traffic.

"Arsenal have delivered a consummate display here today, dominant from first to last. Manager Arsene Wenger is beaming broadly and deservedly so after an FA Cup Final won with almost embarrassing ease."

Pretty calm celebrations from Arsenal, it was such an emphatic win and was never in doubt.

AP

'Villa need a few players'

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live

"Aston Villa didn't turn up. Shay Given did and the supporters did and that's it. Arsenal were outstanding. There wasn't a bad player in a yellow shirt.

"Tim Sherwood has a lot of work to do for next season. It will be interesting next season. With a couple of signings Arsenal will be challenging for the championship.

"Villa need a few players - quite a few as well."

Theo Walcott always seems like a very nice man - he takes time out to thank the medical team and physios for his rehabilitation after a year out.

#getcarriedaway

Martyn Gorse: Not just North London celebrating tonight… Southampton get into Europe as a result of this result!

Joe Walsh: And a lovely flick in from Giroud!! It's four - and it's a good day to be a Gooner!

Pete Cash: The most one sided Final since Manchester United v Millwall

That's the biggest win in the FA Cup final since Eric Cantona scored twice in a 4-0 win for Manchester United over Chelsea in 1994. Dominant.

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"Jack Wilshere was on the right side, into Oxlade-Chamberlain and he hit the ball inside and it was an easy chance for Olivier Giroud, especially as the centre-halves switched off."

FULL-TIME

Arsenal are FA Cup winners for a 12th time. A record.

GOAL

Salt rubbed into Villa wounds. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain drills in a low cross and Olivier Giroud supplies a gem of a first-time finish. He's so good at those, a little deft flick into the net. He was looking the other way!

AFP/GETTY

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"There have been some brilliant performances but it has been an amazing pleasure to watch Santi Cazorla. He ran the game from minute one and dictated the play for Arsenal. He showed so many clever passes, touches and tricks."

A classic shot! The engraver already picking out the letters of ARSENAL at the base of the FA Cup. He can just trace last year's to be honest. Easy.

THREE MINUTES added on as Danny Murphy picks Santi Cazorla for man of the match. Hard to argue with that.

#getcarriedaway

Gregory Mandapat: Tasty matchup for the Community Shield next season, Arsenal vs. Chelsea. Two of the most in-form clubs to end the season.

Michael Lowdon: He might be a decent prospect, but I can't believe the hype of Grealish until he sorts his hair and socks out.

SUBSTITUTION

Alexis Sanchez is given a standing ovation as he leaves a minute early. Brilliant first season in the Premier League. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain gets a brief taste of the occasion.

The close season is officially two minutes away.

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"That looked a definite penalty. Grealish sneaked in behind Bellerin, who had his arm on Grealish's right shoulder."

Hector Bellerin had at least one arm on Jack Grealish's neck...that looked like a spot-kick to me.

PENALTY APPEAL

Another penalty appeal for Aston Villa as Jack Grealish keeps the ball in tight to the deadball line and is clotheslined! Play on says Jon Moss...

#getcarriedaway

Shohidur Rahman: Only Okore and Richardson can hold their heads high. Villa have been so poor.

David Woods: Benteke playing like he wants to stay at Villa.

Euan Rellie: Total, remorseless, unceasing dominance

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"It is going to be a big summer for Aston Villa in terms of their player recruitment. It has been a disappointing game for the Aston Villa fans, who have been brilliant all afternoon."

It must be a weird feeling - Preston fans could tell us - to cruise over the line at Wembley. Normally so tense and edgy at the showpiece events, but Arsenal are streets ahead.

YELLOW CARD

Gabby Agbonlahor is booked for dissent after complaining about that penalty appeal. If this is to be goodbye from Christian Benteke, it's been a fairly lame goodbye.

EPA

PENALTY APPEAL

Pace! Real pace from Gabriel Agbonlahor as he surges away, Francis Coquelin dives in to an ill-advised lunge and brings the forward down. Is that a penalty? Just outside the box.

Referee Jon Moss doesn't even give a foul. That sums up Villa's day.

Reuters

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"I thought Mesut Ozil was superb today. He had some good touches, clever passing and kept popping up in vital positions. It was a really good performance, one of his best of the season."

Text us on 81111

Adam: Thanks Arsenal ! Saints in Europe !!!!!!!

Gareth: How on earth did Villa not get relegated this year?! They are appalling. Forget the Championship - they look like League one material. Shocking!

Jamie Pragnell: We're all now going on a European Tour! Saints fan.

Southampton will qualify for the Europa League after finishing seventh in the Premier League if Arsenal win the FA Cup.

Jack Wilshere's first touch sees him dance into the area, leave a Villa defender on the floor but his cutback is well cleared. More goals in this?

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live

"Villa got it right against Liverpool in the semi-finals. Today they got it wrong. It's easy to say it now but you could see it after 10 minutes. They haven't played with any width and Christian Benteke has been left totally isolated."

SUBSTITUTION

Theo Walcott got the party started and now he gets an early bath. He's off, and on comes Olivier Giroud. Mesut Ozil is also replaced by Jack Wilshere. Decent strength in depth...

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"This is a huge learning curve for Jack Grealish. Sometimes there are games when you learn more from than others. He looks a bit drained of energy and maybe the game became too much for him. But he is a superb talent and will have a great future.

"Too many Aston Villa players have not performed at the level as they did in the semi-final, but Arsenal have been superb. All their big players have turned up."

AFP/GETTY

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live

Former Spurs winger Chris Waddle enjoyed Alexis Sanchez's goal but remains true to his Tottenham roots.

"I still think Ricky Villa's was the best cup final goal."

Opta

A day to forget for Villa teenager Jack Grealish, as his touch map above shows. He would have been hoping to have more of the ball much further up the field.

Jack Grealish has not gone hiding, in fact he's had more of the ball since Villa went 3-0 down. His day may come again but he'll want to forget this one in a hurry. Villa's 58-year wait for the FA Cup looks set to roll on.

How about this for a challenge then? No team has scored more than four goals in an FA Cup final since Bury beat Derby 6-0 in 1903.

Arsenal have put it into neutral since the third goal.

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"It is hard when you are three or four goals down but you have to find some strength inside mentally as you never know what can happen. One goal can change a tie.

"It looks very unlikely at the moment as Arsenal are so dominant but if you are Aston Villa you have to have belief."

Arsene Wenger is 20 minutes away from a sixth FA Cup win - a truly superb effort that would leave him level with Aston Villa's boss George Ramsay.

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live

"Aston Villa are getting a little bit of possession because Arsenal have come off the pace. I'm sure Arsene Wenger would like to get a couple more goals. Arsenal have been outstanding today."

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer from Wembley

"This has been a harrowing FA Cup final from first to last for Aston Villa. Arsenal have been magnificent, ripping Tim Sherwood's side apart. Arsenal have turned it on when confronted with the big occasion - and also provided Wembley with one of the great FA Cup final goals from Alexis Sanchez."

PA

A picture is worth a thousand words

Ashley Elliott

Ashley Elliott's tweet perfectly sums up the mood of both sets of fans.

Mesut Ozil finding his A-game today when he needed to, he beats two Aston Villa defenders easily but then takes on one too many and it runs away.

You can see Alexis Sanchez's goal at the top of the screen. Perhaps you could tell Shay Given where it went as you do.

#getcarriedaway

Richard Stacey: BFG, BFG!! We want 5, we want 5.

Tom Sharpe: All credit to Arsenal, they haven't allowed Villa to play at all.

Nathan Grant Picot: Aston Villa are absolutely nowhere to be seen. Arsenal all over this one like a rash.

Get in touch at #getcarriedaway, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or BBC Sport's Google+ area.

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to say who you are and where you are texting from.

One is not amused

BBC

He'll wish he stayed at home with George...

Arsenal are now 10-0 up against Villa overall this season.

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"We saw in the first half Aston Villa had some problems with set plays and they have been punished with one there. That could be the one that kills the game, the one that wins the cup for Arsenal.

"Christian Benteke has struggled defensively all afternoon and he got in front of his man and it was a simple header for Per Mertesacker."

Tim Sherwood wears his heart on his sleeve and he looks utterly dejected in the dugout now. Losing a final always hurts, losing to a superior side is not easy to watch but he will be rightly angry about that third goal. A Sunday league side would hate to concede that.

AFP/GETTY

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live

"It could be a lot more. Benteke has to put his hand up there. He was marking Mertesacker. It's an easy header. It's a simple goal and you've got to say this has been a simple game for Arsenal."

Reuters

#getcarriedaway

Gary Lineker

BBC Sport

"If only Paul Lambert was still in charge."

GOAL

BBC

Unforgiveable defending really. You can't leave a 6ft 7in German unmarked six yards out. He's even wearing a fluorescent yellow shirt, he could hardly be more obvious, but Per Mertesacker is somehow allowed to head in a corner, it is so, so easy.

The ball actually came off his shoulder, it was that simple.

Villa owner Randy Lerner exchanges words with Prince William. 'Fancy buying this lot?'

#getcarriedaway

Joe McDonald: Arsenal in this form really are a joy to watch.

Tom Campbell: Outstanding display so far from Arsenal - really impressed. Love it when world class players deliver in big games.

Matt Wilson: I broke my ribs a week ago, that goal by Sanchez made me scream so hard I am in extreme pain, but that was worth it

Villa's only shot so far came in the 19th minute. They do come forwards in numbers but there is a real lack of conviction as the penalty area comes into view and it fizzles out.

Arsenal then counter, Mesut Ozil sends Theo Walcott away and Jores Okore does brilliantly to block his shot. This could get ugly.

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"Aston Villa have their backs against the wall and they need to dig in here. But they have to take risks and get the men forward in wide positions to get the ball into Christian Benteke."

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live

"This not what Tim Sherwood wanted. He didn't want to be attacking and leaving gaps everywhere because the one team that can exploit gaps is Arsenal."

The last team to win the FA Cup by more than one goal were Manchester United in 2004 when they beat Millwall 3-0. That record looks likely to go at the minute.

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer from Wembley

"Aston Villa's hopes of a comeback look to have been snuffed out by one of the great FA Cup final goals. There was actually a delayed reaction to Alexis Sanchez's striker from Arsenal's fans - they were probably picking their jaws up off the floor."

GREAT SAVE!

Arsenal could really beat Villa up this afternoon. They are playing some stunning stuff and Shay Given has to make a good save to keep out Santi Cazorla's daisy-cutter.

.

Remember the first? It was George Robledo for Newcastle v Arsenal in 1952 of course...

#getcarriedaway

Gary Lineker

BBC Sport

"We don't want another Arsenal goal, otherwise Prince William might leave Wembley before the final whistle."

DISALLOWED GOAL

Alexis Sanchez has the ball in the net but the flag was already raised! Shay Given made a stunning save to repel Theo Walcott's volley, but he was offside, rendering Sanchez's tap-in irrelevant.

#getcarriedaway

Dan Walker

BBC Sport

"Wow! Arsenal on their way with a screamer from Sanchez."

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"Arsene Wenger will be smiling inside. His big-name players, some of whom have been criticised this season, have all shown their skill today."

The people of Tocopilla, Chile, will be absolutely buzzing. Their man Alexis has been brilliant and now he leads the charge again, cutting inside before finally being blocked out.

Still the Villa fans cheer and sing.

#getcarriedaway

Adam May: That'll be replayed for years and years - rightly so! Hit with such venom Given didn't even see it.

Janet Hopper: Even Superman wouldn't have stopped that. Brilliant from Sanchez. Never expected that.

George Zhang: WHAT A GOAL!!!!!! I just screamed at the top of my lungs. My sis is looking at me weirdly. Alexis Sanchez scores a stunner.

#getcarriedaway

Gary Lineker

BBC Sport

"Stunning, swerving, special strike from Sanchez."

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live

"It's a mountain to climb for Villa who are not playing well. Sanchez doesn't score a bad goal. Every goal he seems to score is fantastic. He never panics. He knows what he's going to do with the ball and what a strike. The ball is moving everywhere. Villa haven't turned up today."

YELLOW CARD

Ashley Westwood is booked for a trip on Alexis Sanchez as Gabby Agbonlahor replaces Charles N'Zogbia for Villa.

Arsenal may have been guilty of going missing in big games in recent times but today they have well and truly delivered. So far.

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"We have seen him score some wonderful goals this season but I'm not sure we have seen better than that. With the movement on the ball Shay Given had no chance. It was a superb strike from Alexis Sanchez.

"Aston Villa have to keep calm and keep a good shape."

EPA

GOAL

Wow. Wow! That is brilliant.

Alexis Sanchez shows every facet of his game. First, the determination to chase down a lost cause and get to the ball on the left before anybody else. Then the awareness to turn onto his right foot between two chasing Villa defenders.

And then the power and accuracy to lash a 25-yard shot past Shay Given and into the net, just kissing the crossbar on the way in. Wonderful strike, it swerved so late that Given had no chance. Is that the FA Cup?

Reuters

#getcarriedaway

Crystal Palace midfielder Barry Bannan has tweeted: Gabby needs to get on the pitch if Villa are going to turn this around

'Aston Villa froze'

Phil Neville

Former England defender on MOTD

"We spoke before the game of Aston Villa's strengths and they are playing direct and playing the ball into Christian Benteke with Fabian Delph and Tom Cleverley getting forward. But it was 31 minutes before they played their first forward ball.

"They have been too safe. They froze and allowed Arsenal to take control in the first 20 minutes. Jack Grealish has been really poor. Scott Sinclair and Gabriel Agbonlahor could provide more of a threat.

"Santi Cazorla has controlled the game. He has threaded the ball through and he is like Xabi Alonso, Xavi or Paul Scholes. But Aston Villa can still cause Arsenal problems. Wojciech Szczesny can be suspect on big occasions."

Scott Sinclair and Gabby Agbonlahor are both warming up so perhaps a change is imminent for Villa. Jack Grealish, socks rolled down in trademark style a la Steve Claridge, weaves past two men on the left but he can't connect with his cross.

.

Not a bad summer signing then....

Mesut Ozil and Aaron Ramsey link up nicely down the left channel, Ramsey's shot is deflected into the path of Shay Given. Arsenal are purring along today, well up to their best.

#getcarriedaway

Paula Cogan

Paula Cogan: What a volley from Theo Walcott.

Arsenal have won the FA Cup back-to-back before by the way, they beat Chelsea in 2002 and then Southampton in 2003.

Reuters

AFP

KICK-OFF

Here we go, no changes yet...

Former Manchester United and Everton manager David Moyes on BBC Radio 5 live

BBC

"I think Tim Sherwood will give the same boys the chance to make it better. But he won't want to go too gung-ho. While it's 1-0 they've still got a good chance."

We may be clutching at straws here but in April 2009 Arsenal took the lead vs Chelsea in the FA Cup semi through Theo Walcott. They led 1-0 at HT, but lost 2-1.

Getty Images

#getcarriedaway

Guy: Strong words needed from Sherwood at half time, Villa need to find some inspiration.

George Reeves: Poor first half, score line flatters Villa. Need to up their game, still everything to play for.

RiosBestGiggs: Villa have to go two. Surely Sherwood would rather go home having given it a go.

Get in touch at #getcarriedaway, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or BBC Sport's Google+ area.

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to say who you are and where you are texting from.

The view from Hong Kong

BBC

BBC World Service correspondents have been collating supporter reaction from around the world as part of our alternative live text commentary of the FA Cup final.

Zhijie Shao from BBC Chinese is at an Arsenal gathering in Hong Kong, at a futsal pitch: "Here they know Arsenal's players by Cantonese names: Gei-Ngo-Tek for Giroud, O-See-Yee for Ozil."

'Villa are still in the game'

Alan Shearer

Former England striker on MOTD

"You have to give Arsene Wenger credit as he has seen the threat of Christian Benteke. Wenger has said to his goalkeeper, Wojciech Szczesny, that if Villa get the ball into the box then you have to go out and attack it.

"That's a huge help to his two centre-halves. It's a dangerous tactic to do it every time but it has helped Arsenal's defenders.

"Aston Villa are still in the game but the pace, positioning and movement from Arsenal has been too much for them."

Goal of the 50 years?

A reminder that you can vote here for the best goal of the last 50 years on MOTD.

The five nominations are here.

"Not gone well for Grealish"

Dion Dublin on MOTD

Former Aston Villa striker

"Unfortunately for young Jack Grealish it has not gone well for him today. He is a great player, has a great future. But they need to get Agbonlahor on. Give the Arsenal defenders something to think about."

Getty Images

It's an old, old debate - but where is Theo Walcott's best position?

He's been around for almost a decade but he's only scored in three games for England...

#getcarriedaway

Tim the Gooner: Phenomenal first half. Utterly dominant. Concerned we haven't scored a couple more though!

Mark Bannister: Just goes to show that a £30 mil striker is a 300k one without any service.

Kofi Gyawu Sarfo: What was Villa's game plan? Gift the ball to Arsenal and park the bus? Nothing has been worked so far.

The consensus is pointing toward Gabby Agbonlahor getting on at the break. Running at Per Mertesacker? I think so...

'Get Agbonlahor on'

Dion Dublin on MOTD

Former Aston Villa striker

"Villa have given the ball away too easily. Benteke had three or four touches, he is isolated, trying to bring it down but it is taking so long to get support to him. They need to take the attention off Benteke and get Agbonlahor on, alongside him."

Getty Images

'The cup tie should be over'

Alan Shearer

Former England striker on MOTD

"After 40 minutes I was thinking Arsenal have been absolutely brilliant, so dominant, but had not got the goal. The goal is what they deserved but the cup tie should be over. They should be three or four ahead.

"Aston Villa have to improve in the second half. Young Jack Grealish has not had the greatest of games so maybe Aston Villa need to bring on Scott Sinclair or Gabriel Agbonlahor."

Touch of class

opta

He wasn't involved much but Theo Walcott made one of his touches count. His touch to the left of the penalty spot saw him crash the ball home.

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer from Wembley

"Aston Villa can almost be relieved to have reached half-time only one goal down. It could have been a lot worse and manager Tim Sherwood has got some fast talking to do in the next 15 minutes because his team have simply not played in this first half. Arsenal, in contrast, have been sleek and impressive."

PA

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live

"I think Tim Sherwood can't wait to get them in. They will be thinking that 1-0 down is a result."

Stat attack

Stat from Opta who tweet: "Alexis Sánchez has been involved in 36 goals this season for Arsenal (all comps), a club-high since Van Persie in 2011/12 (42). Class."

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"Maybe Tim Sherwood will think about bringing on Gabriel Agbonlahor to partner Christian Benteke up front for Aston Villa. We have not seen too much of Benteke so far. He has not got into the game and has been disappointing."

HALF-TIME

BBC

The Gunners as good as you've seen them in a big game for a long, long time. Well on top. Playing some lovely stuff. Villa in trouble.

Smiles all over the faces of Arsenal's players now as Mesut Ozil finds a pinpoint pass into Santi Cazorla's feet, a magic ball, but Cazorla is just closed out of it as he tried to pull the trigger.

Tim Sherwood needs a half-time team-talk of the ages to turn this one around.

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"Arsene Wenger must be pleased. Arsenal have played with confidence, speed and energy."

A second Arsenal goal could be terminal for Villa's chances, they are hanging on in need of the whistle.

#getcarriedaway

Gary Lineker

BBC Sport

"Wonderful strike from Theo Walcott! Wonderful selection from Arsene Wenger!"

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live

"It was a well-worked move. Villa think they have cleared it but Walcott follows the pass he gave to Monreal and it was a clean strike. It's a great strike with his left foot and Shay Given had no chance. Walcott looks better when he as gone wide. He is not a player down the middle."

#getcarriedaway

Brian Stokes: Walcott again proving why he should be a striker.

Evan Keenan: Hard to see Villa getting back into this now

Seven goals in seven starts for football's nearly man Theo Walcott now this season. The Villa fans react superbly with plenty of noise and backing, but can their players follow suit?

Getty Images

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"Arsene Wenger take a bow. He made the decision to switch Walcott to the left and Sanchez to the middle. It was Sanchez's header from a central area after the cross from Monreal.

"Walcott, coming off the left side, produced a superb volley with his weaker foot. He was calm, kept it down, hit the target and that is no more than Arsenal deserve."

GOAL

BBC

Thoroughly deserved, you have to say, as Arsenal lead! Theo Walcott has just been switched out to the left and it is from there that he slams the Gunners ahead.

Alexis Sanchez heads Nacho Monreal's cross down, it bounces into the path of Walcott and he shows great composure and technique to hammer it left-footed through a crowd of bodies and into the net. Would have been easy to slice that.

WATCH NOW

If you missed Shay Given's belting early save, Aaron Ramsey's miss and the superb Songs of Praise choir - the highlights are available at the top of the screen now.

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live

"We have seen the odd glimpse of Villa going forward but Tim Sherwood will be disappointed with the way they have played with the ball. Arsenal should be going in at half time two or three up."

#getcarriedaway

Andrew Wilson: What are the odds on a Villa red? All look a few seconds off the pace.

Will Rook: Arsenal's final ball has been brilliant so far today, Szczesny looks shaky though.

Abhishek: Seems like the occasion is getting to Grealish..dribbling into players, bad touches. Can't get into the game at all.

Get in touch at #getcarriedaway, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or BBC Sport's Google+ area.

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Arsenal switch Theo Walcott out to the left, as Alexis Sanchez goes through the middle. Pace everywhere you look.

Jack Grealish then has his first real dribble for Villa, tricky stuff and he nearly links up with Christian Benteke.

Who is it Grealish reminds us of? A bit of Steve McManaman in his dribbling?

PA

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live

"When I saw the way Arsenal were setting up with Alexis Sanchez on the left I thought Alan Hutton was in for a hard afternoon. He's done well to get to 32 minutes before getting that tackle in."

Villa break but Arsenal hunt them down in packs, three, four men in yellow flood around the ball and win it back. Not seen hunger to get it back quite like that from the Gunners in a long time. That has been their weakness.

.

YELLOW CARD

BBC

Alan Hutton dives into Alexis Sanchez, all or nothing tackle and he gets nothing. Of the ball anyway, plenty of the Chilean's ankle. A nasty one and he's in the book.

Arsenal then force a corner, Shay Given makes a hash of claiming it and Ron Vlaar hammers it clear.

#getcarriedaway

I Lived: Come on Arsenal! We need to take advantage of Villa while we still can.

Stephen Tew: As good as a goal! Can Richardsons block galvanize Villa.

Ross Parlett: Villa defence is creaking but standing firm. Will only be a matter of time before Arsenal crack it wide open.

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"It looks like Wojciech Szczesny has made the decision, and it is a brave one, that anything comes into the penalty area he will go for. He nearly got that one wrong so he will have to be careful.

"It wouldn't surprise me if Tim Sherwood was thinking of a formation change as Arsenal are so dominant at the moment."

Villa have been starved of opportunities to find Christian Benteke but they do now craft one, Fabian Delph doing well on the left to work space for the cross, he puts the ball in and Wojciech Szczesny comes 16 yards off his line to make the punch!

A pre-meditated strategy to deal wit the big man, but it's risky as the ball falls to Tom Cleverley - who rather closes his eyes on the header and can't control it.

#getcarriedaway

Lukas Podolski

Arsenal's German striker Lukas Podolski who has been on-loan at Inter Milan has tweeted a picture of himself watching the game. and wrote: "Come on #gunners"

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live

BBC

"You've got to give Arsenal credit. They look easy on the eye but they have worked hard and got the ball back quickly.

"It's a definite yellow for Fabian Delph. They should have had three now."

Delph escaped censure for pulling back his man on halfway.

Theo Walcott has only had seven touches so far - the fewest out there. Arsenal have already had seven shots.

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer from Wembley

BBC

"Aston Villa fans still right behind their side but no mistaking the growing anxiety as Arsenal get closer and closer to taking the lead. Arsenal moving Villa around and Jack Grealish, so composed and dominant in the semi-final win against Liverpool, is struggling to get on the ball."

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"It is very hard to plug so many holes when the opponents are so good at creating space and seeing the runs. Arsene Wenger is probably thinking that Arsenal will need to score during this good spell.

"We're not seeing enough of Charles N'Zogbia and Jack Grealish. They need to come and find the ball. Sixty-two percent of possession shows Arsenal's dominance so far."

Watch live coverage by pressing the play button at the top of this page. (UK only).

Aaron Ramsey has a deflected shot on target, the Gunners are ramping up the pressure. You get the feeling one goal could bring the Villa house of cards tumbling down, but there's no doubting the spirit of the Villa side.

They finally get on the ball and Fabian Delph wisely goes back, just keep the ball for 30 seconds and let Jores Okore and co have a breather.

Reuters

#getcarriedaway

David McWilliam: Wonder if Tim Sherwood has got his gillet on under his suit.

Andrew Wilson: Great block from Richardson but again indicative of Arsenals lack of a finisher.

Get in touch at #getcarriedaway, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or BBC Sport's Google+ area.

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Mesut Ozil becoming more and more influential now, he's finding space and passes where nobody else can.

He's playing like, well. like a World Cup-winning, £42m, former Real Madrid playmaker.

AFP/GETTY

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live

"Arsenal are moving the ball so quickly. It was Walcott on the end of it and I have to say he's got to score."

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"Aston Villa have been careless in possession. Arsenal are trying to raise the tempo, but Villa are just about holding on. Theo Walcott should score but let's give Kieran Richardson credit for an amazing block."

CLOSE!

Should score! Must score! Mesut Ozil with the clipped ball in from the right, good connection by Theo Walcott on the volley and it takes an awesome goal-saving block from Kieran Richardson to ensures the game remains goalless.

Reuters

Theo Walcott almost gets away as Villa once again lose the ball in midfield. TimSherwood has turned Villa away from their defensive mindset but perhaps they are a bit too open now?

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"Fabian Delph lost the ball and then it was a poor clearance from Ron Vlaar. So many times this season we have seen Aaron Ramsey finish from there so that's a big let-off for Aston Villa."

#getcarriedaway

Former Aston Villa goalkeeper Brad Friedel tweeted:"Great save Given!!! Think starting Walcott instead of Giroud surprised a lot of us, including Villa, and in opening stages is paying off."

CLOSE!

BBC

Aston Villa are playing a very, very dangerous game - and Aaron Ramsey should score! Fabian Delph is stripped of possession, Alexis Sanchez accelerates away and the ball finds its way to the feet of Rasmey, a bouncing ball, under pressure but he's only seven yards out. Any sort of shot on target and he scores, but he loops it over the top.

A real let off for Villa.

BBC

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer from Wembley

"Arsenal having the better of things. Enjoying more possession and carrying more threat in these early phases of play. Aston Villa are feeling their way into the game and all we have seen from danger man Christian Benteke so far has been a foul on Santi Cazorla, for which he was lucky to escape a yellow card.

"The Gunners' pace and mobility is a real threat to Villa's defence."

The Villa fans had just been quietened after that flurry of Arsenal half chances but their spirits, and voices, are raised by a good break led by Tom Cleverley. Inevitably the ball finds its way to Christian Benteke but he can't get a shot off. Jack Grealish hasn't got into the game yet.

#getcarriedaway

Jonathon Ward: Something almost Seaman-esque about Given's save then!

Kevin Stacey: Shay Given, most underrated keeper in Premier League history. Quality save

Get in touch at #getcarriedaway, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or BBC Sport's Google+ area.

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to say who you are and where you are texting from.

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"Koscielny thought he scored, but great reactions from Shay Given. He was moving to his left but had to go back the other way. Great stop from Shay Given."

Opta

Arsenal dominating possession early on.

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live

"Arsenal have dominated the game so far and set the right tempo. Villa have worked so hard but they have got to play when they get the ball. Villa are containing them but when they have the ball they have forgotten to play."

CLOSE!

Well Arsenal quite simply have to score in a minute. Hector Bellerin gets away down the right and puts over a low cross, Aaron Ramsey slides in on the stretch - and shoots into the side netting. Close!

Your Cup final live text?

I know what you're all thinking - 'I could do your job, it's easy!'

Well, not only are you 100% accurate, but you have a chance to prove it right now. As part of its coverage, the BBC Sport website is currently running an alternative live text commentary - written entirely by you.

Have you got what it takes to sum up the key moments as they happen?

Can you describe the goals, shots and saves? The atmosphere where you are? The emotions of the occasion? Fancy sharing you and your friends' experience of the big day?

Wherever you are in the world, send in your photos, opinions, and descriptions on social media, and we'll put the best ones online - live, as the game progresses.

Get in touch at #getcarriedaway, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or BBC Sport's Google+ area.

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to say who you are and where you are texting from.

GREAT SAVE!

BBC

Sensational! What a save from 39-year-old Shay Given!

Alexis Sanchez pops up a cross, Laurent Koscielny gets there and meets it with a thumping header, he must think it's goal time, he's only six yards out but Given belies his age to turn in mid air and claw it out one handed!

Not quite as good as Seaman v Peschisolido. But close.

Reuters

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live

"He had to give Cleverley a yellow card. Benteke should have had one a few minutes earlier but that one was so deliberate."

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"The referee let one foul go from Benteke, but that was a cynical trip from Tom Cleverley. I'm all for letting the players have one or two fouls, but not when it is cynical like that was."

YELLOW CARD

Tom Cleverley is now the first man in the book for a very cynical trip on Nacho Monreal. You can't get away with that, and ref Jon Moss flashes yellow.

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"It has been a good start from Arsenal, confident, on the front foot."

#getcarriedaway

fqiren: This time last year, Arsenal were already 2-0 down. Great improvement I would say.

Get in touch at #getcarriedaway, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or BBC Sport's Google+ area.

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Don't ever break the rules in front of Chris Waddle. He's a stickler. He's right though.

Villa counter for the first time as Kieran Richardson travels downfield but his cross is met by the punching fist of Wojciech Szczesny.

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live

"That should have been a yellow card for Benteke.The referee probably said it's too early. I hate that. It should have been a yellow card. They are the rules."

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Arsenal are looking very dangerous. They force another corner but Christian Benteke again makes a clearing header. He may go down the Dion Dublin career route.

Centre forward to centre half. To Homes under the hammer?

Benteke is then lucky not to be booked for a poor challenge. Free-kick out wide...

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"That was a really good chance. It was a good corner from Santi Cazorla, Koscielny got the run on Christian Benteke but couldn't direct his header. It was a poor header."

CLOSE!

Another Arsenal corner. Santi Cazorla flight the ball in , Laurent Koscielny beats Christian Benteke to it this time but his header is off target, high and wide.

He scored the key equaliser in last season's final. Fine tempo to the game thus far.

CLOSE!

Jores Okore snakes out a leg to clear his lines and Alexis Sanchez then puts the ball back across and Kieran Richardson slides behind his own goal. Arsenal just dialling up the pressure, but that man Christian Benteke turns auxiliary centre-half to clear.

Vote results

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Can Aston Villa upset the odds?

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live

"Benteke needs service for Aston Villa. At the minute N'Zogbia and Grealish are playing very narrow and flooding the midfield. At some stage one of them will have to come out wide. Can they get crosses into the box? That's what Benteke thrives on."

Villa won't want to leave Christian Benteke too isolated up front today but they are also wary of leaving the midfield empty. When Arsenal get on the ball Villa are quick to pack in five men in the middle, and shut them down. Tom Cleverley slides Benteke away on the break but the offside flag is raised.

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"Fabian Delph has been pivotal in Aston Villa's good end to the season and them staying in the Premier League. You can see his confidence and his leadership qualities are growing by the month."

AP

#getcarriedaway

Jack Parsonage: Very refreshing after other day's affairs. No FIFA, no Blatter in sight, just the pinnacle of the English game!

Chris Waddle

BBC Radio 5 live

"Arsene Wenger must have said to his players 'remember last year, we started slowly and conceded two early goals against Hull'. They have come out of the blocks very quickly."

AFP/GETTY

Ashley Westwood was a winner at Wembley a few years ago with Crewe and the Villa midfielder makes a nice early pass to find Fabian Delph, who then spreads it with a gem of a sweeping pass. The Villa fans are loud, their team are proud. Not overawed.

Arsenal making the early running, the men in yellow winning two early free-kicks, and Theo Walcott is a real livewire, picking up space, looking to get in behind.

He's spent his whole career pleading for a chance up front. Now is his chance to shine there.

Theo Walcott takes 14 seconds to worry Jores Okore with his electric pace but the big defender does well to clear his lines.

"Theo! Theo!" rings down from the stands.

Join the debate at #getcarriedaway

Peter Walker: Do you think Prince William sings "God save my gran"?

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KICK-OFF

Jack Grealish has the first touch - and we are under way!

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

"When you look at that Aston Villa back four, Theo Walcott's pace is going to terrify them."

Teams in huddles, the pitch is magnificent, no excuses, don't leave anything on the pitch...

PA

The atmosphere is crackling. Charged. The Arsenal end bedecked in yellow, half of Wembley a warm swathe of claret. All set?

AFP/GETTY

Getty Images

Alfie Boe has to wait for the refrain of 'Holte Enders in the sky' to die down before he launches into the National Anthem. A wonderful display of pageantry. Doesn't get more British than that.

Let the games begin!

Martin Keown

Former Arsenal and Aston Villa defender on MOTD

"These things are always close. I am going to go with a 2-1 Arsenal win. Pretty confident."

BBC

Prince William, President of the FA, dad of two, is introduced to the teams. He's an Aston Villa fan too of course.

Now, anthem time...

You've been brilliant so far today - we've had more dogs than an afternoon at Crufts, plenty of babies and fans from Colombia to Thailand tuning in.

A reminder that you can get in touch at #getcarriedaway, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or BBC Sport's Google+ area.

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to say who you are and where you are texting from.

Here come the teams. Tim Sherwood has his game face on. Focused. Fierce.

Alan Shearer

Former England striker on MOTD

"Aston Villa have to start the game well and frustrate Arsenal. Aston Villa's players have to play the game and not get swept away in the occasion."

Abide with me

BBC

Well sang choir, well sang.

It's unfair of me to single anyone out - but Mr Rotherham was giving it both barrels. Top class.

BBC

Abide with me

We know what it's like, you love the tune, it's a tradition - but you don't know all the words.

Well here you go. All together now:

"Abide with me; fast falls the eventide;

The darkness deepens; Lord with me abide.

When other helpers fail and comforts flee,

Help of the helpless, O abide with me.

Getty Images

"Hold Thou Thy cross before my closing eyes;

Shine through the gloom and point me to the skies.

Heaven's morning breaks, and earth's vain shadows flee;

In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me."

Abide with me was first sang at the 1927 FA Cup final.

Abide with me

Here come the Songs of Praise choir. Brilliant.

#getcarriedaway

Jake Harris

Jake Harris: Cheering on the gunners from Thailand

The pre-match paraphernalia is up and running, dancing children, fireworks, lights, tickertape, you name it. Here we go, I can see a man holding the trophy nervously in his hands. Prince William is in the tunnel, it's all go.

Super Sanchez

BBC

Will the Chile international have a big part to play this evening?

Poulter's lawn

Ian Poulter

British golfer and Arsenal fan Ian Poulter has posted this picture on Instagram of his magnificent lawn.

"Come on Arsenal.... Lawn is freshly cut and looking good ready for action. Even the ground staff at @WEMBLEYSTADIUM would be proud of my lawn."

LINE-UPS

A reminder of the all-important Cup final line-ups:

Arsenal: Szczesny, Bellerin, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Monreal, Coquelin, Cazorla, Ramsey, Ozil, Sanchez, Walcott. Subs: Gibbs, Gabriel, Wilshere, Giroud, Ospina, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Flamini.

Aston Villa: Given, Hutton, Okore, Vlaar, Richardson, Cleverley, Westwood, Delph, N'Zogbia, Benteke, Grealish. Subs: Guzan, Baker, Bacuna, Sinclair, Agbonlahor, Cole, Sanchez.

Referee: Jon Moss (W Yorkshire)

#getcarriedaway

Matt de Jong

If Aston Villa need some inspiration, perhaps Tim Sherwood should show them a picture of Matt de Jong's dog Dora. I mean, that is magnificent. You have to say.

Can Alexis Sanchez be the key man for Arsenal today?

BBC Sport's Chris Bevan at Wembley

BBC

"I feel sorry for whoever got the job of dishing them out, but free scarves and flags were left on almost every seat at Wembley - so about 80,000 of them - ahead of kick-off. Aston Villa fans are making full use of theirs at the moment, while bellowing out their anthem 'Hi Ho Silver Lining'."

Not long to go now. Almost time for the music to start, the pyros to spark and the nerves to really kick in...

The FA

The FA: The Band of The Brigade of Gurkhas outside Wembley. They will perform Abide With Me and the National Anthem.

We have a turtle #getcarriedaway

David French

David French: Nervous pet turtle Arsenal fan selfie... He's hiding away!

Arsenal fans will be hoping their team don't stay in their shell today.

Sing when you're winning?

BBC

I've always gone for the head back, arms out, full pelt approach to singing the FA Cup anthem 'Abide with me.'

But why not do it properly this year? Learn from the maestro himself as FA Cup conductor Steve Thompson gives you a singing lesson.

Watch and learn.

Songs of Praise choir

Everyone wells up for 'Abide with Me' on Cup final day. It's the way of things.

But this afternoon will be an extra special rendition as the winners of the BBC Songs of Praise FA Cup Fans Choir competition, who applied to take part in a once in a life-time experience to sing 'Abide With Me' on the pitch at Wembley before the FA Cup Final, get their moment in the sun.

PA

Leona Lewis sang Abide with me at last year's final

Sixty-four lucky football fans, who are a mix of male and female fans with ages ranging from early 20s right up to 100 years, will be representing their football club as they join with singer Alfie Boe and The Band of The Brigade of Gurkhas in front of almost 90,000 people. Each fan represents one of the 64 teams who've made it to this year's third round in the FA Cup.

Over 1,300 people applied to take part in the unique experience to sing 'Abide with Me', which has become a constant fixture since it was first sung at the FA Cup Final in 1927.

Read all about them here.

'Arsenal need at least three players'

Alan Shearer

Former England striker on MOTD

"Are Arsenal making progress? They picked up four points less than last year so that says maybe not. Are they the finished article? No. I think they need at least three players to compete in the Premier League.

"They need a goalkeeper, a top centre-forward and a midfielder, maybe even another defender. When they need to perform, this Arsenal team doesn't always do so. They got lucky in the final last year and got lucky in the semi-final this year."

Life's a beach #getcarriedaway

Christopher Hughes

Arsenal fan Christopher Hughes at Punta Leona, Costa Rica.

Match of the Day

IBF super-middleweight champion James DeGale and Arsenal fan: "The double is still on. Me winning the a world title and Arsenal winning the FA Cup!

"I fancy Alexis Sanchez to score and Arsenal to win, he has had a great season and could be man of the match. A fantastic signing."

The view from Chile

BBC

There's a Welbeck street quite near my house in Salford actually - but I'm not sure it's named after Danny...

Former Chile manager Nelson Acosta, who gave Alexis Sanchez a debut for club and country: "Alexis is all good, you can't find anything bad about him. Some people look for things to criticize but there is nothing to be found.

"He is an amazing player, he is a happy lad, doesn't have any problems, he doesn't act differently because he is playing for Arsenal or because he played in Barcelona.

"Because he is playing in a high level and is making a lot of money, because now he is living in a beautiful house and that is all great, he has it all but he is still the same Alexis.

"He has always been and I hope he never changes. Alexis, watch it!"

BBC

Sanchez's career has been followed closely in Chile by those who knew him growing up.

'It was very difficult to pick the team'

Match of the Day

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger tells BBC One: "You are always proud when you can bring silverware to the club. We've always been consistent in the FA Cup and we want to do it again.

"It was very difficult to pick the team, I must confess. So many players deserved to play and I have great players not in the squad. We've had so many injuries but in the last couple of months everyone has come back. The players have to be ready to play for 120 minutes.

"There were so many players available in midfield and up front. I have gone with Theo Walcott instead of Olivier Giroud and that's debatable.

"You feel a special excitement around the game when you arrive at Wembley. To bring the trophy home is a special day. But the pressure does not become less, it becomes more as you know what it means to people."

'Arsenal the best team to watch'

Dion Dublin on MOTD

Former Aston Villa striker

"When they are given the time to play, Arsenal are the best team in the Premier League to watch. Sometimes they over complicate things and try and walk the ball into the net. They will hurt Villa if they give Arsenal any gaps. I am just hoping they don't."

Inverness are Scottish Cup champions

All over and Inverness Caledonian Thistle are the Scottish Cup champions for the first time in their history after beating Falkirk 2-1.

Get all the reaction in our dedicated live coverage page.

Vote now

Most of you have picked an Arsenal win in normal time this afternoon - what do you think?You can vote at the top of the screen.

Arsenal supporting parrot #getcarriedaway

Karls

Karls: Kiwi is ready for the match.

I think we are just a reptile away from an animal full house now...

'Wenger cares for his players'

Martin Keown

Former Arsenal and Aston Villa defender on MOTD

"Arsene Wenger believes very strongly in his players. He genuinely cares for players in a way no manager had done before and you give that little bit extra for him."

Grealish family

BBC

Two generations of the Grealish family are at Wembley to cheer on 19-year-old Jack.

His granddad Jack was incredibly at Wembley in 1957 when Villa beat Manchester United 2-1.

"It's great to be back, I'll be on top of the world if we win" he said.

Mum Karen said: "We are very proud of him, I spoke to him on the train coming up. He said he had a few nerves."

While dad Kevin is wearing his lucky claret and blue shirt. Bought in Marbella no less...

Juliette Ferrington

BBC Radio 5 live

BBC

"Chatting to this man with Arsenal fans shouting "Tim Sherwood is a gooner!"

Beautiful sunny afternoon as Arsenal's players trot out for their warm-up. The Gunners will wear yellow today for Arsene Wenger's 16th game at Wembley.

He has won eight so far...

BBC Radio 5 live

BBC

Arsenal fan AP McCoy was on BBC Radio 5 live a little earlier: "I'm not a good watcher of matches. Arsenal can make you nervous!"

Ey up, Moyesy's clocked us!

BBC

Tim Sherwood, Tony Adams and Martin Keown charted at number three with their debut single in 1998...

'Good luck. They will need it'.

Match of the Day

More from Aston Villa manager Tim Sherwood, who admits he will have to tweak his tactics because of Theo Walcott starting up front for Arsenal.

Sherwood says: "The starting positions for the defenders needs to be looked at but they are not stupid. We let our players make decisions on the pitch, but we can't get beat over the top with a long ball."

Asked what the last thing he will tell the players, Sherwood says: "I will say 'good luck' and they will need it."

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at Wembley

"Aston Villa fans enjoying reliving their run to Wembley on the big screens inside the stadium. They almost act as a timeline of manager Tim Sherwood's rejuvenation of the club.

"One question for Sherwood to solve will be how to cope with Theo Walcott. Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger appears to have applied the tried and trusted philosophy of asking himself who would his opponents least like to face.

"Would Villa defender Ron Vlaar be more comfortable dealing with the power of Olivier Giroud or the pace of Theo Walcott? Wenger, with good reason, believes he may be more uneasy against Walcott."

Two men have walked into the BBC studio and removed the FA Cup. We can only hope they were FA officials...

Scottish Cup final latest

Mad drama in the Scottish Cup final!

Battling Falkirk equalise as Peter Grant bullets a header home from Blair Alston's free-kick. Game on...or is it? Moments later, James Vincent powers off on the break and sidefoots home to put Inverness back ahead. Inverness lead 2-1 with five minutes to go...

Follow our dedicated live coverage here.

'We believe we can do it'

Match of the Day

Aston Villa manager Tim Sherwood tells BBC One: "I had a great career as a player and this is the start of my managerial career. To be leading out Aston Villa, a massive club, out in the FA Cup final at Wembley is a dream come true. I'm going to go home very disappointed if I don't have that trophy coming back with us.

"It's about winning this trophy and we believe we can do it. We were underdogs against Liverpool and played very well. I expect them to do that again. We have a plan, we know Arsenal have lots of threats but we have to impose ourselves on them."

Forty-five minutes (45) until kick-off. Jack Grealish's family had better get a move on or they'll miss the anthem.

What's your pre-match ritual?

Walcott deserves this chance

Martin Keown

Former Arsenal and Aston Villa defender on MOTD

"Theo Walcott has been in sparkling form and sent out a message last week. He missed this game last season through injury and deserves this chance.

"I am surprised though. I thought Olivier Giroud might have been in there, although I have heard he has had an allergy this week and Arsenal will want to get Walcott running at Villa's defence."

BBC Sport have tracked down Jack Grealish's parents on Wembley way! Superb.

'Sherwood wants his players to be free'

Alan Shearer

Former England striker on MOTD

"The ability for Tom Cleverley was always there, but it was about getting it out of him. He wants to go forward and is a good reader of the game. Tim Sherwood has allowed him to get forward and support the centre-forward and get into the box. Without a doubt, Cleverley has changed his game.

"Just like with Cleverley, Sherwood has also given Fabian Delph an opportunity to go forward. Delph and Cleverley have improved their games but also have helped Christian Benteke improve as well. Under Paul Lambert, Aston Villa's game was about possession and the guys weren't allowed to go forward. But Sherwood has said he wants them to be free."

Operation: Stop Benteke

Match of the Day

Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey: "Aston Villa play in a diamond shape, they overload the middle of the park. It is important to stop them getting a hold of midfield. We also need to stop their crosses as they have a striker who is in great form and is very good in the air.

"Last year we were 2-0 down in the first 10 minutes. I hope we don't put our fans through that this year."

Tom Cleverley is in the proverbial shop window today of course - he has been released by Manchester United and is a free agent. Where will he end up next season?

'The biggest game of my career'

Match of the Day

Aston Villa midfielder Tom Cleverley: "This is the biggest game of my career, I need to use all of my Wembley experience and hopefully we will get a good result.

"We have done well to stay in the league and played well since the new manager came in and hopefully we can round it off with a great day at Wembley."

BBC

"Is that the teams out on Twitter Jack?"

Aston Villa boss Tim Sherwood is in typically bullish mood. "I won't be happy if we don't leave here with the trophy," he says.

Nothing in it

.

Going all the way today then?

Team news

BBC

Theo Walcott starts in attack for Arsenal after a hat trick in the Gunners' final Premier League match, with striker Olivier Giroud on the substitutes bench. Goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny gets the nod between the posts in place of regular league goalkeeper David Ospina, as one of four changes from the league finale win over West Brom.

Aston Villa goalkeeper Shay Given has recovered from a groin injury to make his second FA Cup final appearance. Gabriel Agbonlahor has to settle for a place on the substitutes bench as teenage midfielder Jack Grealish continues in midfield for the Villains. Boss Tim Sherwood has made three changes from their final day defeat to Burnley.

Arsenal XI: Szczesny, Bellerin, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Monreal, Coquelin, Cazorla, Ramsey, Ozil, Alexis, Walcott. Subs. Ospina, Gibbs, Gabriel, Flamini, Wilshere, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Giroud

Aston Villa XI: Given, Hutton, Vlaar, Okore, Richardson, Westwood, Delph (c), Cleverley, Grealish, N'Zogbia, Benteke. Subs. Guzan, Bacuna, Sinclair, Agbonlahor, Cole, Sanchez, Baker.

From ref to boss?

Here's a good one for you - FA Cup Final referee Jonathan Moss has ambitions to become a manager once he stops officiating. No, he does! Honestly.

Reuters

The 44-year-old from Sunderland will take charge of today's game at Wembley and obviously fancies the big occasion. He's taken his Uefa B coaching badge and coaches youth sides in his spare time.

"I would love to do it," Moss told The Times. "If you can manage people, I think the skills are transferable. I would love to do the Pro Licence. It's fitting the time in after I finish my refereeing career."

What do you reckon? From ref to boss? Would that work?

North of the border

There has been a red card in the Scottish final - Inverness down to 10. Can Falkirk capitalise?

You can follow minute-by-minute updates of that game in a separate page - click here to follow action from Hampden.

Win or lose - get on the booze

Twitter

Sensational. No beers for Arsenal if they lose...

Join the debate at #getcarriedaway

Former athlete Katharine Merry, who won a bronze medal in the 400m in the 2000 Olympics, writes on Twitter: "A big day.....good luck @AVFCOfficial ...will be cheering from the US...#FACupFinal."

Theo Walcott running at Ron Vlaar is a scenario that Aston Villa simply cannot allow to happen.

On the flip side, Christian Benteke will fancy his chances against the Gunners backline. There's goals in those line-ups, surely?

'Walcott will be full of confidence'

Alan Shearer

Former England striker on MOTD

"I said Theo Walcott would start so I'm not surprised. He will be full of confidence after he scored a hat-trick last week. Aston Villa sometimes play a high line but if they do that today, Walcott is the one man who can run in behind the defence."

BreakingBREAKING TEAM NEWS

Aston Villa

Aston Villa goalkeeper Shay Given breaks a record as he starts in goal, 17 years after his previous final appearance with Newcastle in 1998. Teenage midfielder Jack Grealish keeps his place and is this a farewell appearance for Christian Benteke?

Villa XI: Given, Hutton, Vlaar, Okore, Richardson, Westwood, Delph, Cleverley, Grealish, N'Zogbia, Benteke.

Samoa calling #getcarriedaway

Adam Boulton

Adam Boulton: Here we are in Samoa ready to go!!

Samoa in the South Pacific ocean is approximately 15,747 km from Wembley.

#getcarriedaway

Jane Nelson

Jane holbrook: Four-month-old Nelson. First FA Cup final. very proud dad.

Corms

Corms has tweeted a picture of some young Villa fans in Yorkshire.

But will they still be smiling at full-time?

BBC School Report

BBC

School Reporters Sam and William have been covering the build-up to the final for BBC News School Report.

"Villa fan John Hale was very passionate and enthusiastic and confident in Villa getting a win today. He also stated that he thought Christian Benteke would get a hat-trick and that his best-ever moment watching Villa at Wembley was still to come this afternoon when they 'take the cup back to Birmingham'." they report.

"We also met Arsenal fan Albert Smith who started watching theclub in 1947. He said he preferred the old Gunners sides but thought the current team could get a result today."

#getcarriedaway

Dee

We've had dogs, cats, babies and now we have Arsenal-supporting rabbits.

Dee: Lily and Buddy are match ready.

'We want goals today'

Alan Shearer

Former England striker on MOTD

"The one thing Tim Sherwood has brought back to Aston Villa is goals. He has got Christian Benteke playing well again and has given the midfielders licence to move forward so we want to see goals today."

Join the debate at #getcarriedaway

David Rudisha

Kenyan athlete David Rudisha, who won an Olympic gold medal in the 800m in 2012 and is the current world record holder at this distance, writes on Twitter: "In front of my TV anxiously waiting for @Arsenal vs @AVFCOfficial playing FA Cup. #Gunner."

Wenger the master

.

A win for Arsenal today and Arsene Wenger equals the most amount of FA Cup wins as a manager...

BreakingBREAKING TEAM NEWS

Arsenal

The Arsenal team is in - and Theo Walcott starts up front after his hat-trick last week. Jack Wilshere scored the goal of the season last Sunday but he's only on the bench. Wojciech Szczesny starts in nets.

Arsenal: Szczesny, Bellerin, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Monreal, Coquelin, Cazorla, Ramsey, Ozil, Alexis, Walcott

Your FA Cup final

I know what you're all thinking - 'I could do your job, it's easy!'

Well, not only are you 100% accurate, but you have a chance to prove it this afternoon. As part of its coverage, the BBC Sport website is running an alternative live text commentary - written entirely by you.

BBC

Have you got what it takes to sum up the key moments as they happen?

Can you describe the goals, shots and saves? The atmosphere where you are? The emotions of the occasion? Fancy sharing you and your friends' experience of the big day?

Wherever you are in the world, send in your photos, opinions, and descriptions on social media, and we'll put the best ones online - live, as the game progresses.

Get in touch at #getcarriedaway, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or BBC Sport's Google+ area.

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to say who you are and where you are texting from.

You can't beat playing football outside on Cup final day can you? If I wasn't now old, slow, fat and rubbish I'd go and have a kickabout right now.

#getcarriedaway

carrie-ann stocks

Arsenal stars of the future?

Thanks to Carrie-ann Stocks for tweeting in this great picture. Is that a Giroud-inspired haircut we spy?

Keown still a Gunner

Martin Keown

BBC Sport at Wembley

Martin Keown, three times an FA Cup winner with Arsenal who also played for Aston Villa, on MOTD: "I have a lot of affection for both clubs. My memories of winning the Cup lie with Arsenal so I will go for them but I can't really lose and it's great to see Tim Sherwood taking Aston Villa back to where they belong."

Record breakers?

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A win today and Arsenal will become the team with the most FA Cup final wins, currently sharing the record with Manchester United on 17. Aston Villa will move to joint third with Tottenham on eight with victory.

The Gunners will definitely set a record for the most cup final appearances, moving to 19 - one ahead of United.

'Always a great atmosphere'

Alan Shearer

Former England striker on MOTD

"When, as a player, you leave the hotel on the team coach, you see the fans singing and dancing on the streets. It is always a great atmosphere on FA Cup final day."

BBC

Here come Arsenal off the bus. Steve Bould looks ready to play to me! Get him in there.

#getcarriedaway

Jake Haddock

Jake Haddock: Not going to #getcarriedaway just yet, but boy are we buzzing! Come on you gunners!!!

Pass us a sausage.

The pundits are picking their favourite Cup final memories - Wrighty, Keegan, Ricky Villa. Nostalgia-fest. We love it.

Team news in 15 minutes by the way.

'I threw my losers' medals away'

Phil Neville

Former England defender on MOTD

"The FA Cup final is all about the winning. I've been defeated in two finals and I threw my medals away. I didn't want any memories of losing. Both teams will want to walk away with the winners medals.

"From a player's point of view, you just want the game to start. You have had such a build-up since the semi-final. The music will be on in the dressing room and the manager will be trying to calm the players down.

"Aston Villa have to start the game well as they did against Liverpool in the semi-final. They have to make Arsenal nervous, get the ball to Christian Benteke and hopefully catch Arsenal on an off day."

Last time Arsenal were here

Getty Images

Arsenal are hoping to retain the trophy they won last year when they play Villa this afternoon. Aaron Ramsey's extra-time strike settled it against Hull last year, after the Gunners came back from going 2-0 down inside eight minutes.

It meant Arsenal won the FA Cup for the 11th time, to equal the record held by Manchester United.

Join the debate at #getcarriedaway

Boxer James DeGale, who won the IBF super-middleweight world title last Saturday, writes on Twitter: "On my way to Wembley. Come on you Gunners the double's on!"

Getty Images

BBC

Footage now of Aston Villa arriving in the depths of Wembley. Can you judge anything from footage of some men leaving a team bus?

BBC

Gary Lineker reckons they look confident.

Dion Dublin is in the MOTD studio this afternoon by the way. He's recommended knocking down the partition wall and opening up the available space, and to possibly look into putting an extension over the garage.

Last time Villa were here

Getty Images

Aston Villa played in the last ever FA Cup final to be played at the old Wembley before it was redeveloped - their first appearance in the showpiece for 43 years. It was not a classic game, and Chelsea won the competition for the second time in four years thanks to Roberto Di Matteo's solitary strike.

For those who like the nostalgia, here is the Villa starting line-up for that day: James, Delaney, Ehiogu, Southgate, Barry, Wright, Boateng, Merson, Taylor, Carbone, Dublin.

Recap: FA Cup semi-finals

AP

It was all set up, wasn't it? Steven Gerrard's final Liverpool game would be on his birthday in the FA Cup final. Nope, scratch that. Tim Sherwood's resurgent Aston Villa had other ideas and Fabian Delph hit the winner as the seven-time winners were knocked out.

In the other semi, Reading had come from nowhere to earn a day out at Wembley, where they met holders Arsenal in the final four. The Royals battled hard and it was 1-1 after 90 minutes, but a bit of magic from Alexis Sanchez settled the tie and put the Gunners on course to retain their crown.

BBC

The BBC Sport cameras track down an Arsenal fan who has travelled from Los Angeles with her 80-year-old nan this afternoon, while there is a Villa fan who has come from Australia.

It's madness isn't it? A beautiful madness which afflicts us all...

BBC

Goals galore

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What a difference a manager makes!

Before Tim Sherwood came along, Aston Villa could not buy a goal. They had bagged just 12 in 25 Premier League matches, a strike rate of 0.48, compared to 19 goals in 13 (1.46) since his appointment.

Will they be prolific this afternoon?

We have 90 minutes before the big 90 minutes kick-off, and Wembley is already abuzz with excitement. How early do you take your seat on a day like this?

#getcarriedaway

Pav Dhande

Villa fan Pav Dhande has revealed a text conversation with his Arsenal supporting friend: Old uni pal supporting the opposite number. How it should be!

The view from Chile

BBC

Everywhere you look in Tocopilla...

Keep your eyes peeled during the build-up for some cracking footage from Chile. BBC Sport travelled there recently to see how Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez is viewed in his homeland.

Mural artist Jose Nadal in Tocopilla, Chile: "I saw the need and I went to talk to the mayor and told him that it would be good if he started working on this part of the city, close to the square, this part that Alexis lived in to make it more interesting. And he told me that it was a good idea and that it wasn't a problem. He told me he would give me the paint.

"Alexis is a role model for children to follow. All the kids play with Alexis shirts. When he plays in the Chile team the kids watch Alexis. At Arsenal the whole city watches Alexis. Everyone feels very proud that someone could have come from such a difficult place such as this one in the Chilean desert.

"Alexis always remembers Tocopilla, he has never left Tocopilla aside. He comes at Christmas and gives toys to children, footballs. He built a multi-sport pitch, he fixed this pitch that was the one he played at, he fixed it and has given free access for the children to play."

BBC

...there are reminders of Alexis Sanchez's past.

Montage time.

"To travel a thousand miles, you have to start with a single step," quotes Gary Lineker over the sweeping strings of Ennio Morricone as we see footage from around the world and through the history book.

It's a stunning start. If I do say so myself...

#getcarriedaway

Raj Shah

Raj Shah: Aaron and Eshaan getting ready for 530pm.

LIVE! LIVE! LIVE!

And we are live on BBC One and at the top of the page!

Gary Lineker and co are waiting for you. Do it.

Where it all began...

Where were you on 16 August last year?

That was when the Road to Wembley began in the Extra Preliminary round, with Whickham FC of Tyne & Wear smashing Bacup Borough F.C. 5-0 in the first tie in front of 95 people.

Getty Images

It will be closer to 90,000 people this afternoon as nine months on we get ready for the 134th FA Cup final.

In the last 287 days 734 teams have fallen by the wayside. Just Arsenal and Aston Villa remain. Who will emerge victorious?

#getcarriedaway

Stuart Morgan

Face paint. Check. Wig. Check. Replica shirts. Check.

These young Villa fans are all set for kick-off in this photo tweeted by Stuart Morgan.

Phil McNulty

BBC Sport chief football writer at Wembley

"No doubt who is carrying the hopes of thousands of Aston Villa fans as they start to make their way into Wembley for the FA Cup Final against Arsenal judging by the name emblazoned on the back of their claret and blue shirts - and that is Christian Benteke.

"The giant Belgian striker has been revitalised since Tim Sherwood succeed Paul Lambert as manager and he will be the man The Gunners will have been plotting to counter, with the threat of his physical presence, aerial ability and no mean strength on the ground.

"Surely Sherwood's orders will be simple. Nothing complicated - get the ball into the Arsenal penalty area and let Benteke loose. If the ploy succeeds then Villa will fancy their chances."

Twitter

Goals, goals, goals

We want goals today don't we? Lots of them. A 4-3 in extra-time maybe.

Unfortunately 16 of the last 21 FA Cup finals have seen only one team find the net. Four of the five in that run where both sides have scored have been won by the team conceding first.

Good afternoon everyone!

Thanks Gary, a sterling seven-hour stint there and a very early contender for Man of the match. He gets my vote.

How are we all? All set for the big game? We are primed here in BBC Sport towers....

Right then, we're entering the business end of our FA Cup build-up.

I've done my best to guide you through John Barnes raps and the FA Pup, so now to my colleague Tom Rostance for the rest of the day's coverage.

North of the border

Inverness have been well on top since the off and take the lead with a neat finish from Marley Watkins.

You can follow minute-by-minute updates of that game in a separate page - click here to follow action from Hampden.

'You only remember the winners'

Phil Neville

Former England defender on MOTD

"You see the steps at Wembley and you only want to go up them as a winner. If you go up as a loser it feels like a wasted day. In 10 years' time no-one will remember who lost in the final. You only remember the winners."

'Gerrraaaarrrrddd!!!'

Steven Gerrard's long-range goal against West Ham United in 2006 came top in a vote to find the best FA Cup final goal from the last 50 years.

Ahead of today's Wembley showdown between Arsenal and Aston Villa we wanted you to let us know which is your favourite final goal.

Getty Images

And you voted Gerrard's strike ahead of Ricky Villa's famous finish for Tottenham against Manchester City in 1981.

Third was Roberto Di Matteo's goal for Chelsea against Middlesbrough in 1997.

Find out how you voted and watch all 10 goals here.

It is Arsenal for Moyes

BBC

Former Manchester United manager David Moyes: "I think Arsenal will win today but I admire what Tim Sherwood has done with Aston Villa in the short time he has been there. You never know in a one off but big players turn up for big games and I expect Arsenal's players to turn up today.

On whether he will be back in the Premier League anytime soon: "Not in the short term, but I want to be managing in FA Cup finals and winning Premier Leagues."

FA Cup cats and dogs #getcarriedaway

james ward-gwilliam

James Ward-Gwilliam: My housemates will won't like it but our uni cat will be supporting Villa today

Louisa

Louisa: Three hours to go - someone took #getcarriedaway too seriously and has to take a pre match nap!

First goal will be crucial

Alan Green

BBC Radio 5 live at Wembley

"I think Aston Villa need to start well and put Arsenal on the back foot and see if they can score the first goal, which I think can be critical.

"I can't see Villa coming back against Arsenal if they score first. But if it's the other way round Arsenal might start to have doubts in their minds."

#getcarriedaway

Jonny Gould

Could be an awkward day in the Gould household.

Jonny Gould: This doesn't happen very often at the FA Cup final.

'Do us proud, Villa'

Getty Images

Former Aston Villa defender Paul McGrath ‏on Twitter: "To be honest my nerves are all over the place, don't think I was as bad when I was playing Villa please do us proud, that's all I ask X."

'Fight like lions'

Aston Villa

Aston Villa are rolling out the inspirational quotes in full force to fire up their players. Dan Walker showed us a few of them in the dressing room earlier on Football Focus and here's another one, above the players' shirts, urging them to fight like lions.

Baby Gooners #getcarriedaway

Andrew Freeman

Andrew Freeman: Callie all set to #getcarriedaway in Galena, MD USA. Hope she doesn't get booked for celebrating.

Anjuli Leahy

Anjuli Leahy: Eight-week-old Logan is surely the youngest Gooner excited for kick off?

The Road to Wembley

Now on BBC One and at the top of the page is the story of this season's FA Cup told through the eyes of famous football fans who endured the highs and lows of their team's cup runs.

Getty Images

As well as showing how finalists Arsenal and Aston Villa booked their places at Wembley, there's a look back at this season's most memorable moments, including the upsets the competition is famed for.

This year's giant-killers included minnows Warrington Town, who eliminated League Two side Exeter City, plus Bradford City, of League One, who knocked out Premier League duo Chelsea and Sunderland.

Moyes making an appearance

BBC

Former Manchester United and Everton boss David Moyes is at Wembley and Dan Walker has caught him for a word.

Moyes was in charge of the Everton side that reached the 2009 FA Cup final, which they lost 2-1 to Chelsea.

California dreaming #getcarriedaway

@Kyle Hirst

Kyle Hirst: Kyle in San Francisco at "The Mad Dog In The Fog" pub with the loyal Villa fans club of California.

Favourite FA Cup final goal

AFP

The most recent goal on this list comes in arguably the greatest FA Cup final of all time.

With the Hammers winning 3-2 entering injury time, a header clear lands to Gerrard who, despite hobbling with cramp, thumps a first-time shot from 35 yards past Shaka Hislop into the bottom corner.

The Reds won on penalties with Gerrard successfully converting his spot-kick.

Watch the video here

Your FA Cup final

Today we're also running an alternative live text commentary on the FA Cup final - written entirely by you. You can find it over here.

Getty Images

Can you describe the goals, shots and saves? The atmosphere where you are? The emotions of the occasion? Fancy sharing you and your friends' experience of the big day?

Wherever you are in the world, send in your photos, opinions, and descriptions on social media, and the best ones will appear live - as the game progresses.

You can join the conversation by using #getcarriedaway on Twitter, posting on the Match of the Day Facebook page, or texting in on 81111 in the UK only.

An early history lesson #getcarriedaway

@Jaymarco

Jaymarco: Starting my 10-month-old daughter with a quick history lesson before the big game. Toledo, Ohio.

BBC School Report

BBC

School Reporters Sam and William have been covering the build-up to the final.

They have been interviewed live on BBC London 94.9, where they were interrupted by a bizarrely-dressed Villa fan, and also by BBC WM and have also spoken to fans on their way to the stadium.

"Aston Villa fan Paul said how the atmosphere around Wembley 'is what makes the game' while Arsenal fans Luke and George predicted 2-1 and 3-1 wins for Arsenal," they report.

BBC

Cheesy, but we like it #getcarriedaway

Dan Taberner

Dan Taberner: Come On Villa! #avfc #facup #getcarriedaway #LuckyCheese

You're getting carried away

Trendsmap

We've had some superb #getcarriedaway pictures sent in and, as this map shows, they have come from all over the world.

Keep them coming!

Half-and-half scarf #getcarriedaway

Wes Fernandez

Wes Fernandez: 12-day-old Cruz is undecided where his allegiance lies. A Gooner Dad AND Villain Mum he's a sure winner.

This may be the youngest fan.

Christian Benteke

Sage advice from Christian Benteke...

Will the striker be the man to fire Aston Villa to FA Cup glory today?

I know for a fact Bevo will have joined in in that kickabout...

Living the dream

BBC Sport's Chris Bevan at Wembley

BBC

"Much has changed right outside Wembley Stadium in recent years - what was once a derelict wasteland is now a bustling shopping centre and park. Lots of fans are happy relaxing in the sunshine but great to see plenty of kids having a kickabout in the shadow of the famous arch - bet they are all pretending to score the winner in the Cup final too."

Favourite FA Cup final goal

Getty Images

The England midfielder had not scored in the Premier League all season so Chelsea could have been excused for not worrying too much about his run forward.

Sylvain Wiltord played the ball to Parlour 45 yards out and as he ran towards goal, the Blues defence backed off, only to see the 'Romford Pele' curl home past Carlo Cudicini from 25 yards out.

Ljungberg scored in his second final in a row as the Gunners went on to win 2-0 to secure the double.

Watch the video here

Recap: FA Cup sixth round

AP

The big tie of the round was Arsenal being pitted against Manchester United at Old Trafford - and it was former Stretford End favourite Danny Welbeck who scored the winner for the Gunners against his former club.

Liverpool just about edged past Blackburn after being taken to a replay while Aston Villa continued to sneak under the radar despite an impressive 2-0 win against West Brom. Bradford's competition was ended by Reading. Again though... it took a replay.

"Can't talk now mum!"

BBC

Mums have impeccable timing sometimes, don't they? Watch how Dan Walker handles taking a call from his... from the top of the Wembley arch.

Favourite FA Cup final goal

Getty Images

Danny Murphy was there as Michael Owen scored a memorable brace, specifically his winner, in the first FA Cup final at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium as Wembley was being rebuilt.

The Gunners led 1-0 through Freddie Ljungberg but the 21-year-old England striker equalised with seven minutes left with an acrobatic finish.

And in the 88th minute he entered FA Cup folklore as he chased a Patrik Berger long ball, beat Lee Dixon and Tony Adams and fired a left-footed finish into the bottom corner.

Watch the video here

'I've got a sneaky feeling Aston Villa will win'

Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder on MOTD

BBC

"The players are less nervous now than they will be nearer kick-off. But as a player you want to distance yourself as much as possible from everything that is happening around you and focus on the game. Today, it's not about how well you play, it's about making sure your team wins.

"I've got a sneaky feeling Aston Villa will win. Their semi-final performance against Liverpool was terrific and they played with great confidence considering so many of their players were playing for their lives in the Premier League. Maybe the FA Cup was a nice distraction for them.

"Jack Grealish was amazing in the semi-final and it was as if he has played here a lot of times before. With him in form and Christian Benteke as well I think Villa will just edge it."

Twitter

Is former Norwich forward Darren Huckerby playing a dangerous game?

Where in the world? #getcarriedaway

Terry Forsythe

Terry Forsythe: At Wembley with the fabulous Aston Villa.

Luke Brown: Villa fan watching in Portugal during my honeymoon!

Another Villa fan Michael Bristow: At the bar in St Petersburg Russia.

Keith Melton: FA Cup final day, by the shore of lake Ontario, Canada. 9am here, but what a way to watch Arsenal win.

Get in touch at #getcarriedaway, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or BBC Sport's Google+ area. You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to say who you are and where you are texting from.

Favourite FA Cup final goal

Getty Images

The fastest ever goal in an FA Cup final at the time.

Middlesbrough took the kick-off but Italy international Di Matteo picked up the ball in his own half 35 seconds into the game. Seven seconds later it was in the back of the net following a 30-yard strike which flew in off the crossbar.

Chelsea went on to win 2-0 for their first major trophy in 27 years. Louis Saha scored an even quicker goal for Everton against the Stamford Bridge club in 2009.

Watch the video here

Royal connection

Aston Villa

Aston Villa have tweeted this picture of Prince Henry, King George V's son, as he met the Villa team before the 1920 FA Cup final.

In that final, Villa beat Huddersfield Town 1-0 to lift the trophy.

His great-great-nephew Prince William will present the trophy to the winners at Wembley today.

Gunners in Africa #getcarriedaway

Laura Kirk

Laura Kirk: We are watching in Accra, Ghana. come on you gunners!!

Shola

Shola: Watching in Lagos Africa with friends and family who are also Gooners.

Vote time

Right then, time for the second vote of the day.

Simple really, who is going to win? You've got six options to choose from, cast your vote on the right side of this page if you are on a desktop computer, or click on the 'vote' tab. Vote closes at kick-off and remember to check terms and conditions.

Pointless FA Cup special

BBC

Now on BBC One is a special edition of Pointless.

BBC Sport's FA Cup pundits take part in the quiz, as they try to score as few points as possible by plumbing the depths of their general knowledge to come up with the answers no-one else can think of.

Gabby Logan, Phil Neville, Robbie Savage, Jermaine Jenas, Jacqui Oatley, Jason Mohammad and Trevor Sinclair are up against each other in this FA Cup special.

Join the debate at #getcarriedaway

Ian Jeffrey: The Anfield Rap is undoubtedly the greatest song ever made.

While we're all in a retro music mood, find out which football matchday songs made the 'Top Of The Kop' charts - as voted for by BBC Sport users.

Everton's famous "Z-Cars" theme, Leeds United's "Marching On Together" and West Ham's "I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles" all feature as well as Liverpool's "You'll Never Walk Alone".

There is even a surprise entry from Queen with "We Are The Champions".

Up a mountain #getcarriedaway

Rob Cobban

Rob Cobban: Cape Town, South Africa. Come on Villa!

Any fans higher than these lot on Table Mountain? They will be on cloud nine if Villa win.

The Sun

Just found the album cover for Glenn Hoddle and Chris Waddle's Diamond Lights. Did anyone actually buy this? I'm not sure even the prospect of a free poster would make it that much more enticing either.

Adrian Heath may be managing Kaka in the MLS now, but he is rocking a serious mullet on TOTP2 here. Brilliant.

And now comes the Anfield Rap. Alan Hansen was a rapping pioneer.

Recap: FA Cup fifth round

Getty Images

Was this a dive from Wayne Rooney at Deepdale?

Bradford looked unstoppable as they took another big-name scalp, this time knocking out Sunderland in front of their adoring public. Again, Bantams striker Jon Stead was on the scoresheet as questions began to be asked... could he still cut it in the Premier League?

Liverpool got the better of Crystal Palace to keep Steven Gerrard's dream of bowing out a winner alive, while Manchester United went to Preston and won. But not without controversy, as Wayne Rooney was accused of diving. Arsenal? They eased past Middlesbrough at the Emirates, while Aston Villa won a fiery derby against Leicester City.

This Arsenal effort is terrible. Who voted for this?!

Team photo #getcarriedaway

Andy Sheppard

An unimpressed Chewie is pictured here with owner Andy Sheppard and his boys.

Fa Cup

Ossie Ardiles, a young Garth Crooks and Chas & Dave, what's not to love? We're on to Ossie's Dream on TOTP2 on BBC One, with plenty more gems to come. Tune in!

Favourite FA Cup final goal

The only free-kick in the top 10, and it came after a foul that is perhaps as famous as the goal itself.

Tottenham's Paul Gascoigne brought down Gary Charles, causing damage to his own knee ligaments that would keep him out of the game for almost a year.

Left-back Pearce stepped up to thunder a left-foot rocket past Erik Thorstvedt into the top corner, but Spurs went on to win 2-1 with Des Walker scoring an extra-time own goal.

Watch the video here

Sibling rivalry #getcarriedaway

Chris Gould

Chris Gould: Big sibling rivalry today despite the distance. I'm in Austria (Aston Villa fan),Tim in Oz, and Pete in UK (both Arsenal fans)

Recap: FA Cup fourth round

Getty Images

The story of the round? That's got to be League One Bradford who went to Stamford Bridge and beat Chelsea 4-2 - after going 2-0 down. It was potentially the best performance of this season's competition.

There was much excitement at Cambridge United, when the university city drew Manchester United in the fourth round - and there was even more fervour when they held Louis van Gaal's side to a goalless draw and headed to Old Trafford for the replay. The Reds eventually won 3-0, but it was not without a scare or criticism.

Blackburn enjoyed shocking Swansea while Manchester City were humbled by Middlesbrough - Patrick Bamford getting the opener in a 2-0 win.

FA Cup TOTP2

Wall to wall hits this afternoon on BBC One. You just do not see Chas & Dave on TV enough for me. You can today though, here's a sneak preview of the Top of the Pops running order.

Tune in now on BBC One - or watch at the top of the page!

Getty Images

Britain's golden age? Chas & Dave and Roy Wood at Keith Burkinshaw's testimonial

Cockney Rejects: I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles

Chelsea: Blue Is The Colour

Spurs/Chas & Dave: Ossie's Dream

Hoddle & Waddle: Diamond Lights

Arsenal: Hot Stuff

Everton: Here We Go

Liverpool: Anfield Rap

Gazza & Lindisfarne: Fog On The Tyne

Showaddywaddy: Blue Moon

Man Utd & Status Quo: Come On You Reds

Motson magic

BBC

If you are travelling to Wembley by train from Birmingham today there is every chance a familiar voice will be piping out over the airwaves.

Our very own John Motson is on the mic for the FA Cup Final Express - keep your ears peeled for such gems as this from the great man:

"Here we are at Rugby - A town not famed for football traditions, the last time I saw Rugby at the Cup Final was Vinnie Jones tackling Steve McMahon in 1988..."

Anyone heard the great man today? Let us know.

Tributes to Rio

Former England and Manchester United captain Rio Ferdinand has announced his retirement this afternoon.

Former Manchester United and England teammate Gary Neville tweeted: "Congratulations to Rio Ferdinand on his great career. Best I played with and best pairings I've seen with Vida/JT. Covered me very well too"

Former QPR teammate Charlie Austin posted: "Pleasure to watch @rioferdy5 over the years and then to play and train with him @QPRFC #5"

Goo Goo Gaa Gaa Gunner

David Wilson

David Wilson: Youngest Arsenal fan? Madeleine Wilson, 15 weeks old!! Leaving her at home while I head to Wembley!!!

Goontrooper

Goontrooper: Don't think she's going to make kick-off. That's what happens when you #getcarriedaway too early!

BBC

If you missed it, you really do owe it to yourself to watch Gary Lineker's FA Cup documentary, which is just finishing on BBC One now.

If you don't believe in the magic of the FA Cup, you will after watching this. It is available on iPlayer now.

Favourite FA Cup final goal

Getty Images

The Teesside forward scored the only header on our list, and what a header it was.

With the Sky Blues losing 2-1, Dave Bennett's perfect cross was met by a Houchen diving header to steer the ball past Ray Clemence and send it to extra time.

In the added period, Gary Mabbutt - who had earlier scored in the right net - put the ball past his own keeper as Coventry won the only major trophy in their history.

Watch the video here

#getcarriedaway

We've been asking you to #getcarriedaway during this season's FA Cup and this happened. Somebody sent us a picture of their pants!

John Crowther

John Crowther wore his green and white lucky underwear to give Blyth every chance of success

Aston Villa fans in Australia #getcarriedaway

Matt Yates

Matt Yates: Supporting Aston Villa on a tomato farm in Australia! Come on the boys!!

AstonVillaPerthAus

AstonVillaPerthAus: Only a day at the beach can prepare for Aston Villa in the FA Cup final

Unpredictable?

Today is the last chance to have a go at our Predictor game - and Arsenal fans, you need to raise your game.

The Gunners are languishing down in 109th place in the table - rubbish!

BBC

You definitely don't get a trophy for that.

Have a go here and see if you can do better.

BBC

The FA People's Cup with BBC Get Inspired was one of the largest five-a-side competitions to be held in the UK with over 30,000 competitors in 10 different categories and players from all backgrounds playing football for free!

Today the winners get to walk on to the hallowed Wembley turf and watch the final.

Supporting from Sydney #getcarriedaway

Chris Knowles

Chris Knowles: Little Maximus Decimus Meridius Watching in Australia with the @SydneyVillans.

Mark Boultwood: Watching the FA Cup final from Bogota, Colombia! Come on Villa!

Where are you following the final from? Let us know via #getcarriedaway

I threw my losers medal in the bin

Getty Images

Phil Neville knows what it feels to be an FA Cup winner, but also an FA Cup loser too.

"In 2009 I played for Everton against Chelsea," he says.

"We lost the game and the medal went in the bin. If you lose you feel a failure. I did not even want to go up the steps. I wanted to go home. "

#getcarriedaway

LaurenLola

LaurenLola: Five-month-old George is definitely a Gooner today. Daddy's a Southampton fan.

Get in touch at #getcarriedaway, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or BBC Sport's Google+ area. You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to say who you are and where you are texting from.

Jack Wilshere believes Arsenal's season will be defined by whether they retain the FA Cup today.

The Gunners finished third in the Premier League and the midfielder says it can only be classed a good campaign if they beat Aston Villa at Wembley.

Wilshere, 23, said: "I think that will define if we have a good season or not.

"We wanted to get to second this year but unfortunately we couldn't manage that so now we're looking to finish the season off with the cup."

Will Wilshere start today? We will have confirmed team news for you at around 1630 BST...

BBC Sport's Chris Bevan at Wembley

FA Cup

"Quite a recent addition to Cup final tradition this one, but the pause for a picture at the top of the steps at Wembley Park station is part of the day for hundreds if not thousands of fans... as is the polite and much repeated request from London Underground staff and police for them to keep moving."

FA Cup canines #getcarriedaway

Twitter

On the left is Louisa's dog, she tweeted: Dog is ready for the final not sure I am though...

While on the right is Woody. His owner Mark Adamson said: Woody's all ready for the FA Cup final only four hours to go.

Recap: FA Cup third round

Getty Images

Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson got to Huish Park on a helicopter

Not watching Gary Lineker's FA Cup documentary on BBC One? Well you should be. A superb reminder of what the competition means to fans and clubs.

We'll crack on with our recap of this season's tournament, and we're on to the third round. Everything was in place for the shocks - including the TV cameras - but Manchester United managed to get past Yeovil, Liverpool held off a beastly challenge against AFC Wimbledon while West Brom put seven past Gateshead in Tony Pulis's first game as manager.

Non-league Blyth Spartans did go 2-0 up against Birmingham but lost 3-2, while Rochdale's victory over Nottingham Forest at Spotland signalled the beginning of the end for Stuart Pearce. Oh yeah... and cup specialists Sheffield United beat QPR. But was that a shock? We'll let you decide.

Favourite FA Cup final goal

Getty Images

The Northern Irish prodigy scored his second FA Cup final goal at the age of only 20 and it proved to be the winner.

United were down to 10 men after Kevin Moran's red card against the holders and favourites Everton.

In extra time, Whiteside dribbled in off the right flank before performing a step-over and curling a perfect arcing shot around defender Pat van den Hauwe, past Neville Southall and into the far corner for the only goal of the game.

Watch a video of the goal

Favourite FA Cup final goal

Getty Images

Kevin Reeves went on to give City the lead after MacKenzie's stunning volley but Garth Crooks levelled to make it 2-2.

And what followed was one of the FA Cup's iconic moments.

Ricky Villa, who had scored the opening goal, dribbled his way brilliantly through the City defence and turned the ball past onrushing keeper Joe Corrigan to make it 3-2 and win the FA Cup.

Watch the goal here

BreakingBREAKING NEWS

Former England captain Rio Ferdinand has announced his retirement from football.

Getty Images

The 36-year-old won 81 caps for England and won six Premier League titles and the Champions League with Manchester United.

He told BT Sport: "I'd like to thank all the fans from all the clubs - for without them professional football would not exist. I will miss each and every one of you on my Saturday afternoons."

Ferdinand started his career with West Ham and also played for Leeds, Bournemouth and QPR.

His wife Rebecca died earlier this month from breast cancer.

Plan your FA Cup final day

BBC

How's your FA Cup final day going so far? We've still got loads to come:

FA Cup TOTP 2 (14:05-14:30, BBC One)

Pointless FA Cup Special (14:30-15:20, BBC One)

The Road to Wembley (15:25-15:55, BBC One)

MOTD LIVE: FA Cup Final Build Up (15:55-17:15, BBC One)

MOTD LIVE: Arsenal v Aston Villa (17:15-19:50, BBC One)

MOTD: FA Cup Final highlights (22:50-23:25, BBC One).

Meanwhile, BBC Radio 5 live are broadcasting live from Wembley, and there will be full-match build-up from 16:30 BST.

David Ornstein

BBC Sport

David Ornstein

He tweeted: "Just under 4.5 hours to kick-off & Wembley looking pitcher perfect"

Where are you following the FA Cup from?

So where will you be watching the FA Cup Final?

Former Villa goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen will be watching from Majorca where he's in training for a 4,000 mile charity bike ride across the US. He's now out of contract after leaving Stoke.

"I think the main thing is they have (Christian) Benteke back on form," Sorensen told the BBC's Sportsworld. "He's such a crucial player for them and like we've seen in previous years, like Wigan, there's always a surprise...."

BBC Sport's Chris Bevan at Wembley

BBC

"This is Arsenal's fifth visit to Wembley in the last 13 months, their 19th FA Cup final and their 40th visit to the old and new stadiums combined (both a record) but a first glimpse of the famous arch glinting in the sunshine as we trundled towards it on the tube still brought gasps from some of the Gunners supporters packing in my carriage.

"It's special every time - just a great place to watch a game of football," said Arsenal fan Josh Davies (r) who along with his mate Julian Troarke is making his third visit in the past year. "Only the teams who aren't in the final think the Cup has lost its magic," added Troarke.

Villa fans have not been so often but are similarly impressed "It takes your breath away", said John Rust, 46, from Sutton Coldfield, who along with his 14-year-old daughter Maddy, made their first visit for Villa's semi-final against Liverpool last month and are very much hoping for the same result today.

BBC

Follow the Scottish Cup final

At 15:00 BST today, Falkirk take on Inverness at Hampden in the Scottish Cup final.

Inverness must start as favourites after ending the season in third place, while Falkirk finished fifth in the second tier.

You can follow minute-by-minute updates of that game in a separate page, which is under way now.

Recap: FA Cup second round

Getty Images

The second round didn't disappoint - Blyth Spartans impressing on national television by knocking out Hartlepool at Victoria Park. Gateshead ended Warrington's run with a 2-0 success while non-league Dover picked up the scalp of Cheltenham Town.

In the replays, Scunthorpe United's penalty win over Worcester City set a new competition record for most penalty kicks taken with 32. Watch all of the penalties here.

#getcarriedaway

Mark Symmonds

Mark Symmonds: In Sao Paulo. Brazil - 1981 I was born/Villa win league. 2015 My daughter born/Villa win FA Cup?

Bale backing Arsenal?

Gareth Bale

Real Madrid and former Tottenham winger Gareth Bale has tweeted Arsenal's Theo Walcott and Aaron Ramsey ahead of today's match, wishing them luck.

Not sure how well that will go down with Spurs fans.

Football Focus

BBC

How does Motty see today's final going then?

"First team to score will lose," he reckons.

Bold.

Favourite FA Cup final goal

The England Under-21 midfielder was only a teenager when he scored one of the defining goals of his career.

After Spurs failed to clear a free-kick, Tommy Hutchison headed the ball across to Steve MacKenzie, who hit a spectacular first-time volley from outside the box to make it 1-1 in the replay at Wembley (skip to 36 seconds in the video).

But it may not even have been the best goal of the game...

Name on the Cup

Some breaking news from the corporate world - The FA Cup will be rebranded as The Emirates FA Cup next season after the Football Association announced a three-year sponsorship deal with Emirates Airline.

The FA had been looking for a new sponsor for the FA Cup since Budweiser ended its three-year association with the 144-year-old tournament last year.

FA chairman Greg Dyke said: "The partnership will help take the tournament to new audiences, inspire interest in football from across the globe and allow us to continue our investment into the game at all levels."

What do you think?

The news was criticised last month, with ex-sports minister and Football Foundation director Richard Caborn saying it was "commercialisation gone mad".

Recap: FA Cup first round

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Where to start? Ah yes... Warrington. Managed by Shaun Reid - brother of Peter - Warrington Town welcomed the BBC television cameras and they did not disappoint, beating League One Exeter 1-0.

Jordan Chiedozie's spectacular 30-yard strike helped Conference South side Concord Rangers take Mansfield to a replay, while Worcester City were over the moon with their victory over more illustrious neighbours, and former Cup winners, Coventry City.Blyth Spartans won the battle of the historic giant killers, beating Altrincham 4-1.

Gary's road to glory

Gary Lineker

BBC Sport

BBC

Now on BBC One, another chance to see Gary Lineker's FA Cup documentary first shown earlier in the week.

This season Gary has travelled the nation to meet the heroes and the hopefuls facing each other in the world's most cherished sporting tournament. As well as following the FA Cup over the season, Gary speaks to current and former stars of the game for who the FA Cup formed a significant part of their personal footballing history.

Gary is in the dressing room with a successful Dover Athletic immediately after they knocked out Football League team Cheltenham. He sits in as Cambridge United players plot their draw with Manchester United over a game of darts in their shared house. Ryan Giggs and Gary meet to talk about the greatest FA Cup goal ever, while Ian Wright takes him back to the estate that he lived on when he played for Palace.

What happened there then?

EE

We've all been there.

You're at a game but you have to text your mate who's watching on TV to find out whether the ref made the right call or not. But those days could soon be over.

Mobile operator EE and the BBC are testing mobile apps at the FA Cup final using 4G Broadcast technology to offer instant replays to watching fans.

The trial will work with 20 devices, with a public service planned for 2016.

Read more here.

#getcarriedaway

Arsenal Action Man

Arsenal Action Man: Watching with my owner in Big Island, Hawaii. Nervous. Legs gone to sleep. 1.30 Saturday morning here

Football Focus BBC Sport

Football Focus

A bit more from Martin Keown, who won three FA Cups with the Gunners: "You have to play the game and not the occasion, treat it like an everyday game.

"Aston Villa fans can think about creating history. Arsenal have been there before but anything happen on the day."

Football Focus

BBC

That may not be the real Martin Keown, but this is.

The former Arsenal defender is outside the Gunners' team hotel, which is a stone's throw away from Wembley. Honestly, you could walk it in about one minute but apparently the players will still arrive by coach, which takes around eight minutes.

"It is all about routine," explains Keown. "I can understand them using the coach, sticking to the same seat, keeping things same as normal."

Not sure if that's former Arsenal full-back Lauren...

Martin Keown...the cat #getcarriedaway

Lauren

Lauren: Our cat Martin Keown is ready for the match.

Wonder if he is as fierce as the no-nonsense, tough tackling, former Arsenal defender he is named after?

Anyone else have a pet named after a footballer?

BBC Sport's Chris Bevan at Wembley

BBC Sport

"I had heard there had been a surge in Jack Grealish-inspired haircuts in the Birmingham area this week and it did not take long to spot some Villa fans sporting a 'Short-Jack-and-sides' after I arrived at London Euston. Appropriately one of them is called Jack too... Matt Dines (l) and Jack Swinhoe (r) both made a special pre-Wembley trip to the barbers. I don't know about the guy who photo-bombed us though..."

Recap: FA Cup third qualifying round

Ex-Aston Villa youngster Stefan Moore - a player once regarded as highly as Manchester United and England striker Wayne Rooney - could not prevent Leamington slipping to a replay defeat against local rivals Worcester City.

Willand Rovers, representing a tiny village in Devon that consists of little more than a post office and a pub, continued their remarkable run by reach the fourth qualifying round for the first time in their history. They progressed through five rounds to face Essex-based Aveley, who they beat 3-2.

One of the FA Cup's most famous non-league giant killers failed to make it through. In 1989, Sutton United beat Coventry City, then in the top tier of English football, 2-1. There was no glory this year however, thanks to Burgess Hill Town.

Arsenal are better than last year

Football Focus BBC Sport

Football Focus

Former Manchester United and Everton player Phil Neville on Arsenal: "Mentally they are in far better shape this year compared to last year's final. They are a different team better team, set up differently.

"Since Christmas their form has been outstanding. If they take that into the game today they should be fine. One worry is their performance on the big occasion. They never perform well at Wembley."

Vote result - Hot Stuff wins

BBC

Earlier we asked for you to vote for your favourite football song from a selection of 10 and the clear winner was Arsenal's Hot Stuff, released ahead of their 1998 FA Cup final appearance, with 29.7% of the votes.

You can watch that treat, along with several other football songs, on TOTP2 on BBC One at 14:05 BST.

'We've travelled 2,500 miles'

BBC

Two fans, Keith and Leon, love the FA Cup. A lot.

They started their adventure this season in the extra preliminary round as Atherton Collieries played St Helens Town and resolved to follow the winning team - and the winner of every subsequent match involving that side - all the way to the final.

Their journey, which today takes them to Wembley, has been a long one, as they have been telling the BBC World Service's Sportshour programme.

"We've seen 14 games, including today, and 58 goals. We've travelled 2,500 miles and spent about £800, but that doesn't include all the pies that Keith ate along the way!"

Hear more about their adventure here and view a gallery here.

Football Focus

BBC

Aston Villa's former German midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger is at Wembley, wearing his former club tie.

"Winning the cup will mean a lot to the players and a lot to the fans. If we win today they will talk about it for the rest of their lives and it would give the club a lot of confidence.

"They are a team that is good at going forward, they will not sit back and defend they will try and score a goal and put Arsenal under pressure."

Football Focus BBC Sport

Football Focus

Getty Images

One of those messages in the Aston Villa dressing room is from Villa fan and Hollywood legend Tom Hanks. It says:"True to the claret and blue for 31 years, good luck in the FA Cup."

Football Focus

BBC

Dan Walker is having a little nosey around the Aston Villa dressing room, where messages from fans have been stuck up on the walls to fire up the players when they turn up in a couple of hours or so.

Lawro reckons that, and the fact this is the FA Cup final, will act as all the motivation Villa players need to give their all during the game, and not some big speech from Tim Sherwood.

"If you need to make a rousing speech as a manager before an FA Cup final, I think you're in trouble," he says.

Favourite FA Cup final goal

Getty Images

The long-haired midfielder scored an extra-time winner as Arsenal wrapped up a league and cup double with a 2-1 victory.

After a goalless 90 minutes, Liverpool led through Steve Heighway but Eddie Kelly levelled things up.

With less than 10 minutes remaining, a visibly drained George smashed a superb 20-yard shot past Liverpool keeper Ray Clemence before collapsing to the ground with his arms outstretched in celebration.

Watch the goal here

Recap: FA Cup second qualifying round

FC Romania, formed in 2006 and made up predominantly of Romanian immigrants, entered the competition at the extra preliminary round - the very start of the FA Cup - and overcame Haverhill Rovers, Heybridge Swifts and AFC Sudbury before losing 3-2 to Sutton in the second qualifying round.

There was also a big story emerging at Concord Rangers, who continued their FA Cup adventure with a 2-0 win against Wealdstone. They needed help from defender Jack Lampe though, who was forced to go in goal and produced a performance he described as "like Gordon Banks" to see his side through.

And if ever there was proof that age is just a number, then Iyseden Christie showed it. The former Mansfield Town and Leyton Orient striker, 38, hit a double hat-trick for Halesowen Town - who play in the eighth tier of English football - in a 7-1 win against Ellistown & Ibstock United.

Villa fans' cheeky dig to city rivals

Football Away Days

Football Away Days tweeted: Aston Villa fans had this message for Birmingham outside St Andrews this morning.

#getcarriedaway

Twitter

Matt Archer has tweeted us a picture of his Villa supporting dog and on the right is James Gilbert's dog Tank.

Football Focus BBC Sport

Football Focus

BBC

Phil Neville, won three FA Cups win Manchester United: "I don't care how many cup finals you have been in you always feel the nerves.

"The players won't be able to eat breakfast they will be that nervous but they will be looking forward to the game."

Cup finals across Europe

BBC

It is not just Cup final day in England and Scotland, with big games in Spain and Germany too.

At 19:00 BST, Wolfsburg take on Dortmund in the German Cup final, while at 20:30 BST, Barcelona face Athletic Bilbao in the Copa Del Rey decider.

Dortmund's game also acts as Jurgen Klopp's farewell party, could Andre Schurrle be the man to spoil it? You can listen to his interview ahead of the game on BBC World Service's Sportshour.

Best MOTD goal of the last 50 years

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Which is the best goal to have appeared on Match of the Day over the last 50 years? Five BBC experts have chosen a shortlist - and you can pick your favourite.

Vote here, with the result revealed after the final. Terms and conditions can be found here.

Starting now

Football Focus

Pop BBC One on now for all the FA Cup build-up you will need with Football Focus.

North of the border

Today is also Cup final day in Scotland, where Falkirk take on Inverness at Hampden, a 15:00 BST kick-off.

Inverness must start as favourites after ending the season in third place, while Falkirk finished fifth in the second tier.

You can follow minute-by-minute updates of that game in a separate page, which will be live from 13:00 BST.

Spot the Villa fan #getcarriedaway

James Howard-White

James Howard-White: Outnumbered in Hanoi, Vietnam. Waiting for Aston Villa in the FA Cup final.

Rich Bannister: This year I will be watching the FA Cup from a beach bar in Dubai.

DatGuySam: Watching the FA Cup final from Bratislava, Slovakia. Got to study for a chemistry exam first.

Send us your pictures as you get ready for the match, let us know where in the world you are watching the game.

Get in touch at #getcarriedaway, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or BBC Sport's Google+ area. You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to say who you are and where you are texting from.

Coming up

Football Focus

BBC

Coming up in 10 minutes, Football Focus will be on BBC One. All sorts of build-up to this afternoon's FA Cup final, including Gary Lineker's interview with Aston Villa fan Prince William.

You'll be able to watch it via the 'Live Coverage' tab at the top of this page.

It takes something special to get Dan Walker, Kevin Kilbane, Trevor Sinclair and a host of talent from across the BBC to come together to play football in the snow! That's exactly what happened back in January when BBC Get Inspired, with The FA, launched The People's Cup.

You can watch what happened in the celebrity match. Rematch next year anyone?

These two don't need any encouragement

Bob Price

Bob Price: Re-enacting later? #getcarriedaway Going to enjoy the family rivalry. Daughter is an Arsenal fan and father an Aston Villa fan.

Play nicely you two.

First black FA Cup finalist to be remembered

Getty Images

Football will remember a pioneer of the game today, with this year's final marking 50 years since Albert Johanneson became the first black footballer to play in an FA Cup final.

Johanneson, who lined up for Leeds United against Liverpool in the 1965 final at Wembley, spent much his career dealing with racial abuse before retiring in 1972.

It was a downward spiral from there, Johanneson struggled with depression and alcoholic problems before he died alone and penniless in 1995.

It is a sad tale, but his daughter Yvonne, and granddaughters Samantha and Stephanie, have been flown in by the FA to attend today's final and help remember one of football's trailblazers.

Where are you following the FA Cup from?

Abdulwahab AL-Owais

Abdulwahab AL-Owais: Kuwait Arsenal Supporters Club gathering

Beth Warner: Heading to an Aston Villa fan's wedding as an Arsenal fan - ever get the feeling you don't belong?!

Clive Gauci: Will be watching the game at the Arsenal Supporters Club of Malta!

Still to come...

BBC

Time is flying by and we have already worked our way through some cracking programmes in our FA Cup-fest.

Here's a reminder of what is still to come on BBC television:

Football Focus (12:10-13:00, BBC One)

Gary Lineker on the Road to FA Cup Glory (BBC One, 13:00-14:00)

FA Cup TOTP 2 (14:05-14:30, BBC One)

Pointless FA Cup Special (14:30-15:20, BBC One)

The Road to Wembley (15:25-15:55, BBC One)

MOTD LIVE: FA Cup Final Build Up (15:55-17:15, BBC One)

MOTD LIVE: Arsenal v Aston Villa (17:15-19:50, BBC One)

MOTD:FA Cup Final highlights (22:50-23:25, BBC One).

Recap: FA Cup first qualifying round

Blyth Spartans, who would later give Birmingham City an almighty scare, entered the competition at this stage and they were taken to a replay by Darlington 1883 before progressing with a 3-0 win.

Maidstone United went goal-crazy in their 10-0 win over Littlehampton Town - thanks to a hat-trick from forward Frannie Collin - while the Metropolitan Police team needed a replay to beat South Park 3-0.

There was also success for 10th-tier teams Blaby & Whetstone Athletic and Ellistown & Ibstock United, who beat Tipton Town and Hereford United respectively.

#getcarriedaway

Twitter

We asked for FA Cup cats and you have delivered.

On the left is Villa supporting Gus and right is Gunners fan Nala.

Ben Trow: If you want cats, here is Gus getting ready for a Villa win

S.T: Nala's ready. Quick power nap before the game.

Is Nala a fan of Santi CATzorla will Gus cheer on Gabriel AgbonlaPAW?

BBC

Sensational tracksuit scenes here as Everton players from 1985 sing their FA Cup final song 'Here We Go' with boundless enthusiasm on Wogan.

Here's spaghetti legs Bruce Grobbelaar, below, singing his bit of the Anfield Rap for good measure too.

You'll be able to watch these treats on TOTP2 at 14:05 BST on BBC One, and you still have time to vote for your favourite football song, with the vote closing at 12:00 BST.

BBC

#getcarriedaway

Hannah

Split loyalties? Notice the Aston Villa shorts.

Hannah: Come on #AVFC (mummy's team) & #AFC ( daddy's team)

Send us your pictures as you get ready for the match, let us know where in the world you are watching the game.

Get in touch at #getcarriedaway, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or BBC Sport's Google+ area. You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to say who you are and where you are texting from.

Sanchez: 'A kid who beat life'

BBC

A mural to Alexis Sanchez in Tocopilla, Chile

Keep your eyes peeled for a BBC Sport package from Chile in the build-up to today's game as we get the inside track on Gunners forward Alexis Sanchez's rise to the top.

Journalist Rodrigo Herrera: "It is a very special story, I would say that it is unique.

"A son of the desert that grew up with many difficulties, that suffers during his childhood and that regardless is able to overcome all these barriers to give a leap and become a professional footballer.

"All of us Chileans are very proud of Alexis because he is a kid who beat life, he beat many adversities to get to where he is today and it shows us the best of us."

Can't touch this.

BBC

Whatever suits the Arsenal and Aston Villa players rock up in later today, you can be certain in won't match the horror show that was Liverpool's attire for the 1996 FA Cup final.

"I swear when we turned up at the stadium, fans thought we were the band," cringes Jason McAteer.

Whoever thought it was a good idea, it looks like Ruud Gullit wants to shake their hand. He's loving it on The 50 Greatest FA Cup Moments, on BBC Two now.

BBC

BBC Radio 5 live

Josh Widdecombe presents the Champion of Champions programme now to round off this season.

Josh and the best four guests of the season will be looking ahead to that afternoon's FA Cup Final with special themed content - and you can listen on this page.

Where in the world? #getcarriedaway

Chris Rees

Chris Rees: Will be watching in Dushanbe, Tajikistan with my mate Munir, a massive Gooner.

Let us know where in the world you are watching the match.

Get in touch at #getcarriedaway, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or BBC Sport's Google+ area. You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to say who you are and where you are texting from.

What was the first FA Cup final like?

BBC

Jumpers for goalposts? Not far off.

No other cup tournament can boast history like that of the FA Cup's.

Today's final will be the 134th, but how different will it be to the first FA Cup final?

Well, back in 1872 there were no nets and the two finalists played with seven in attack for starters. Well worth reading more about the first FA Cup final in our feature.

Recap: FA Cup preliminary round

Jarrow Roofing

West Auckland Town, who won the Sir Thomas Lipton Trophy in 1909 (it was later dubbed the 'first World Cup', welcomed a crowd of 1,238 for their game against Darlington 1883 which finished 1-1, but they slumped to a 3-1 defeat in the replay.

Another game which went to a replay concerned Bishop Auckland, who were held to a 4-4 draw by the wonderfully-named Jarrow Roofing Boldon Community Association. The replay? 4-3 to Auckland, meaning 15 goals were scored in two games.

Barton Rovers beat Staines Lammas 8-1 and Glossop North End put seven past Maltby Main.

Need more cats...

A lot of dogs getting carried away for the FA Cup, but where are the cats!?

Never thought I'd be asking this on a Saturday morning, but what the heck. Has anyone out there got an Arsenal or Aston Villa supporting feline? Send in your pictures to #getcarriedaway.

#getcarriedaway

Andy James

Andy James' Doberman is ready for the match and by the looks of things will be barking for Arsenal.

Wonder if his favourite player is Theo Woofcott?

Dion Dublin

"The beauty of the FA Cup is that it is not all about the big guns. It is about the smaller clubs like Cambridge United, and non-league teams too. Fans get to see their own team pit themselves against the best and that is why the FA Cup is great."

Want to know what happened to Cambridge United, or this season's giantkillers like Blyth Spartans? Check out our feature to find out.

What are the players up to right now?

BBC

While chef James Martin rustles up some sort of smoked fish dish on Saturday Kitchen, former Aston Villa player Dion Dublin explains what the players will be up to at 10:36 BST on the day of an FA Cup final.

"Their mind will be on the game," he says. "Well, they will probably be on their computer games!

"Seriously, though, they will be thinking about the game later. The manager will probably speak to them and tell them what is expected and then they will probably be allowed to go back to bed, relax and get themselves ready for the game."

BBC

Ever wondered how many fans will watch the Cup final on TV around the world? How they all get in and out of the ground safely, how many toilets there are - you name it, we've got the answers.

I say 'we' - Rachel Riley and Dan Walker do. Probably more Rachel than Dan.

Read more here.

"I'm gonna send them to outer space..."

The FA

Winning tickets to watch the FA Cup final is out of this world, literally.

VIP passes for today's final were attached to a weather balloon and blasted into space where the balloon burst and the tickets floated back down to earth.

One lucky Arsenal fan's grandmother found the tickets in the village of Broad Oak, Sussex and he will be getting the VIP treatment at Wembley today.

Your FA Cup final

I know what you're all thinking - 'I could do your job, it's easy!'

Well, not only are you 100% accurate, but you have a chance to prove it this afternoon. As part of its coverage, the BBC Sport website is running an alternative live text commentary - written entirely by you.

BBC

Have you got what it takes to sum up the key moments as they happen?

Can you describe the goals, shots and saves? The atmosphere where you are? The emotions of the occasion? Fancy sharing you and your friends' experience of the big day?

Wherever you are in the world, send in your photos, opinions, and descriptions on social media, and we'll put the best ones online - live, as the game progresses.

Get in touch at #getcarriedaway, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or BBC Sport's Google+ area. You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to say who you are and where you are texting from.

Recap: FA Cup extra preliminary round

What were you doing on Friday, 15 August, 2014? Probably not thinking about the FA Cup... that's what.

However, for some hardy souls the road to Wembley started back in the height of summer. Bishop Auckland - one of the country's most successful amateur sides - were held to a 1-1 draw by visitors Sunderland Ryhope Community Association FC, while 495 fans were in attendance to see AFC Rushden and Diamonds beat Oxhey Jets 5-1.

Coleshill Town beat poor Nuneaton Griff 10-0 while Molesey went one better in their 11-0 defeat of Haywards Heath Town.

What the papers say

_

"We were cheated."

In the Daily Express today is an interview with Aston Villa's Gabby Agbonlahor, who speaks about how he is driven by a past Wembley failure ahead of today's final.

Villa are looking to claim their first piece of silverware since 1996, but came agonisingly close in 2010 when Manchester United came back from a goal down to beat them 2-1 in the League Cup final. Agbonlahor won a fifth-minute penalty for Villa, but felt 'cheated' when last man Nemanja Vidic was not sent off.

"The League Cup final was big but the FA Cup final is even bigger," says Agbonlahor. "If it was the other way around our defender would have been sent off. That [the Vidic decision] cost us the game."

BBC

Pop BBC Two on now where former England captain Rio Ferdinand and Helen Skelton present a special countdown of the FA Cup's 50 Greatest Moments.

Football-loving Olly Murs leads the cast looking back at the most celebrated, most shocking, most memorable moments from the greatest domestic cup competition in the world.

It includes contributions from FA Cup heroes Thierry Henry, Ryan Giggs, Steven Gerrard, Michael Owen, Vinnie Jones, Gary Lineker and Ruud Gullit, plus football fans Gabby Logan, Russell Brand, Louis Tomlinson and Eliza Doolittle.

Alternatively, go for BBC One, where Aston Villa legend Dion Dublin is on Saturday Kitchen, being taught how to cook a steak.

We are genuinely going FA Cup crazy everywhere today.

BBC

Where's the trophy going?

The FA Cup

Live on the BBC

What are the movements of the FA Cup on its biggest day?

Well, during final week the trophy arrives at Football HQ from the silversmith Kevin Williams and stays in Wembley stadium with security up until the weekend.

This morning though the trophy heads out to Saturday Kitchen and then returns for Football Focus live in the stadium. A busy day ahead.

Ian Wright

Arsenal legend Ian Wright: I love FA cup final day!

So do we Wrighty, so do we

Phil Neville

BBC Radio 5 live

"It's the biggest day in football. I've played in many a big game but this is the highlight. You're so nervous for the first 15 minutes that you can't speak. I played for England but this was more nerve-wracking.

"If Aston Villa can play in the same way they did against Liverpool in the semi-final then they have a big chance."

"Don't disturb me, I'm watching the FA Cup!"

BBC

Former Manchester United defender Phil Neville, an FA Cup winner, is on the BBC sofa at Wembley now, talking about his memories of FA Cup final day as a child.

"You woke up in the morning and said to your mum 'don't disturb me all day' because I'd sit on the couch, packet of biscuits and watch everything.

"I grew up wanting to be a footballer and I loved the coverage of the footballers going to Wembley on the coach, discussing the game, it was brilliant for me."

Where are you following the FA Cup from?

Twitter

Will Ringwood: Shall be watching from the beaches of the #gilis #indonesia.

What the papers say

Daily Mirror

Aston Villa starlet Jack Grealish is the focus of a double page spread in today's Mirror, with his team-mate Kieran Richardson saying the midfielder is made for the big occasions.

"With Jack, the bigger the stage, the better he seems to perform. He was outstanding in the semi-final against Liverpool," says Richardson.

BBC

Dogs in football shirts getting a team-talk off Arsene Waggler?

Seriously. BBC Two now, get on it.

What the papers say

Telegraph

Had a moment when you've can't remember where you put the television remote or house keys? We've all been there, but Arsene Wenger takes it a bit further - he doesn't know where any of his medals are.

Today's Daily Telegraph features an in-depth interview with Wenger, who can make it a managerial post-war record of six FA Cup successes with Arsenal by retaining the trophy against Aston Villa but such is his disregard for medals, he jokes that his house cleaner may have taken them, for all he knows.

Wenger says: "I think the guys who come and clean the house, they come and take them! I have given some away, some to charity. I am not a collection man, I am always focused on what's next."

These dogs are ready to #getcarriedaway

Twitter

Aston Villa fan Adrian Bird: Monty has his shirt on ready (bit too big).

Bane&ME: Off to the Emirates screening. NO DOGS so, he's staying home to watch the BBC!

Grrrrzil fell asleep...

BBC

On BBC Two now it's time for MOTD Kickabout.

Presenter Radzi and his FA Cup sidekick Farnworth the Mascot head to Wembley ahead of the big match. They will be going behind the scenes in preparation for the Cup final and getting an access all areas pass at the famous stadium.

There will also be a look back at the goals, shocks and stories of the Road to Wembley plus CBBC's Hacker and Dodge coach their own Aston Villa and Arsenal teams in the FA Pup Final.

That is gold - watch here...

Where are you following the final from?

Getty Images

This fella is getting carried away, are you?

Going to Wembley? Watching in a pub? Sneaking a peak on your phone while in the office?

We want to know how and where you are following today's FA Cup final, so send us your photos and let us know on Twitter via #getcarriedaway

Ozil loves a sing-song

Arsenal

We say footballers singing FA Cup songs is absent this year, but that's not quite true.

I've just found this video of Arsenal players singing 'She Wore A Yellow Ribbon'. Worth a watch, if only for Mesut Ozil looking slightly confused by the whole thing and singing with about as much enthusiasm as Chris Waddle belting out Diamond Lights back in the day.

Motty on the mic

BBC

If you are travelling to Wembley by train from Birmingham today there is every chance a familiar voice will be piping out over the airwaves.

Our very own John Motson is on the mic for the FA Cup Final Express - keep your ears peeled for such gems as this from the great man:

"Here we are at Rugby - A town not famed for football traditions, the last time I saw Rugby at the Cup Final was Vinnie Jones tackling Steve McMahon in 1988..."

What's your favourite song?

In fact, you'll not only be able to watch some belting old-school football songs, you can vote for your favourite too.

We've got a selection of 10 classics from the archives and we want you to pick the one you feel stands above all others. The options are to the right of this page for desktop computer users, or click on the 'vote' tab for those of you with us on mobile or the BBC Sport app.

You've got until 12:00 BST to register your choice, so get voting!

Have a check of the term & conditions too.

Sing when you are winning

Youtube

"Liverpool FC is hard as hell, United, Tottenham, Arsenal.

"Watch my lips, and I will spell, because they don't just play but they can rap as well."

Genius.

That's the sort of lyrical gold created back in the days when FA Cup finalists produced songs to mark their achievement, and sang them on Top of the Pops too.

The Anfield Rap, which first introduced the world to a rapping masterclass from John Barnes, was one such song, marking Liverpool's run to the 1988 FA Cup final and you'll be able to catch this beauty on a TOTP2 FA Cup special on BBC One at 14:05 BST.

FA Cup Rewind

The FA Cup

Live on the BBC

The sun is out, your mind is full of FA Cup nostalgia, and let's start as we mean to go on.

Jump on to BBC Two now where Guy Mowbray introduces the best of the action from the 1973 FA Cup final, which saw holders and odds-on favourites Leeds United take on unfancied Sunderland, then playing in the second division.

A Wembley crowd of 100,000 witnessed one of the most memorable finals in FA Cup history. Classic.

We've got it covered

BBC

We're not lying when we say we've got wall-to-wall FA Cup coverage today because we've even plonked the BBC Breakfast sofa at Wembley.

Watch out for those lawnmowers lads!

Tune in now on BBC One to watch FA Cup build-up on BBC Breakfast.

Twitter

The Danny Baker show

BBC Radio 5 live

As usual on a Saturday morning we are teaming up with The Danny Baker Show on Radio 5 live.

Today's topic of choice is: Peculiar or exotic locations where you've watched the Cup final.

Reuters

'Excuse me mate - any idea where I can see the Cup final?'

I'm expecting big things from you here.

Get in touch at #getcarriedaway, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or BBC Sport's Google+ area.

You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to say who you are and where you are texting from.

BBC Radio 5 live

In addition to coverage on the old telly box there's plenty on BBC Radio 5 live too, starting with The Danny Baker Show - which is under way right now - followed by Fighting Talk at 11:00 BST until 12:00.

Then, from lunchtime, Mark Pougatch is live from Wembley with all the build-up to the final.

Plan your day

BBC

Wall-to-wall FA Cup coverage all day long, and boy do we have some treats coming your way.

Got things to do today? Fear not, plan your day with our schedule of what's on and when. First up, our television coverage:

MOTD Kickabout (09:30-10:00, BBC Two)

Saturday Kitchen ( 10:00-11:30, BBC One)

FA Cup 50 Greatest Moments (10:00-12:00, BBC Two)

Football Focus (12:10-13:00, BBC One)

Gary Lineker on the Road to FA Cup Glory (BBC One, 13:00-14:00)

FA Cup TOTP 2 (14:05-14:30, BBC One)

Pointless FA Cup Special (14:30-15:20, BBC One)

The Road to Wembley (15:25-15:55, BBC One)

MOTD LIVE: FA Cup Final Build Up (15:55-17:15, BBC One)

MOTD LIVE: Arsenal v Aston Villa (17:15-19:50, BBC One)

MOTD:FA Cup Final highlights (22:50-23:25, BBC One

Getty Images

Yes, FA Cup final day.

For those of you of a certain age (35+ I reckon) you'll no doubt remember a time when the final of England's premier cup competition dominated anything and everything for the entire day of the game.

From Mastermind specials to footballers singing badly on Top of the Pops, FA Cup final day was special and unique.

Well, we're reviving the tradition of the Wembley showpiece with a full day of FA Cup coverage, from sunrise to sunset, with Arsenal versus Aston Villa - kicking off at 17:30 BST - at the very heart of it all.

FA Cup fever - from dawn to dusk

For one day a year, a special kind of fever would sweep the nation.

Children would take to streets at dawn to play football...

Getty Images

... families would gather for street parties...

Getty Images

...and those lucky enough to have coveted tickets would prepare to descend on Wembley Way...

Getty Images

For one day a year it is FA Cup final day, and today is that day.