But, with no tickets around, they were forced to flee empty-handed.

Ian Ross, Everton’s director of communications, said: “These people must be contenders for Britain’s dumbest criminals.

“All the tickets have sold out and have been sent out.

“They are not the brightest when they wait until all the tickets have gone and then try to break in. We think it is either kids or someone very desperate for a semi-final ticket.”

A Merseyside police spokesman said CCTV from around the ground was now being looked at and officers were carrying out house-to-house enquiries in the area.

Hundreds of coaches will leave Liverpool early on Sunday morning carrying those with tickets to London.

Everton will be looking to repeat their last Wembley showdown with the Champions League semi-finalists when, in the 1995 cup final, Paul Rideout scored the only goal in a one-nil win.

Victory over United will see them face either Arsenal or Chelsea back in the final in late May.

ANYONE with information about the break-in should contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.