Supporters travelling from Liverpool to London on the rail network for this afternoon's Carling Cup final have been delayed after a derailment overnight.

A Virgin Trains engineering train derailed at Winsford, in Cheshire, leaving the line between Liverpool and Crewe and Warrington and Crewe blocked.

Issuing an apology, the operator recommended that those travelling to London should consider driving to Crewe, Stafford or Stoke stations and taking the train from there.

A Virgin spokesman said: "Due to the high number of passengers intending to travel from Liverpool/Runcorn to London for the football at Wembley it is recommended that if possible they consider driving to Crewe, Stafford or Stoke stations and use the rail services from there.

"Coaches will also be provided to connect Liverpool and Crewe and Runcorn and Stafford."

Liverpool will be looking to end a six-year wait for a trophy when they take on Cardiff City in the league cup's climax.