WANDERERS are prepared to get radical in a bid to find a solution to the pitch problems that have dogged them since they moved into the Reebok Stadium.

Groundstaff have already begun tearing up the turf that was put down last summer and will start laying a new pitch at the weekend in readiness for their next home game, against Fulham on Sunday week.

But, after years of laying and relaying a variety of specially-grown surfaces, head groundsman, Richard Norton, is now searching for a long-term solution to the problem.

The enclosed stadium is at the root of the problem, creating high levels of shade and poor airflow which contribute to poor growing conditions.

Wanderers thought they were on to a winner last summer when they spent around £400,000 laying the same pitch that was being grown for the new Wembley Stadium. But, after just three Premiership games, complaints from players prompted Sam Allardyce to ask for it to be ripped up.

Turf technicians were called in but it was not until this week, after more complaints from players, that it was decided action needed to be taken.

"Sadly, the conditions created by the enclosed stadium has caused problems with the pitch," Norton said. "The high levels of shade, the reduced airflow and unsuitable temperatures all conspired to make it next to impossible to establish a strong and full growth from the end of season renovations.

"In the long term, we need to find a radical solution to ensure a top quality playing surface."

Wanderers plan to give their players a runout on the new pitch before the Fulham game, the first of a minimum of six remaining home games, depending on how they progress in the FA Cup. The Reebok will also stage the rugby league showpiece on February 28, when St Helens will play Brisbane Broncos in the World Club Challenge.

Allardyce is hoping the pitch will help improve the quality of football that has been below par in the last two home games in particular.

"The pitch has struggled in recent weeks," he said. "I'm glad to say we are making changes.

"Players have struggled to keep their feet.

"The changes will see a major improvement for the rest of the season. We do everything to maintain the high standards of pitch care, but there is little we can do if the stadium is not conducive to helping grass growth.

"It is a challenge for the experts and our excellent groundstaff to come up with a solution going forward and we are hopeful this can be resolved in the close season.

"It is not just the Reebok that has a problem. Other major stadia around the country encounter issues with pitch growth and it is mainly down to the design of the fantastic stadiums we play in."