MILLENNIUM Stadium chiefs have reacted quickly to the criticism of the playing surface for Saturday's famous Welsh rugby Six Nations victory by suspending the pitch contractors, In-Turf.

The stadium's general manager Paul Sergeant has quickly drafted in a new team of consultants and 200-150 metres of new turf will be laid to patch up the damaged areas ahead of tomorrow night's friendly football clash with Hungary, amid fears for players' safety in manager John Toshack's first game in charge.

"What happened during the game last Saturday was unfortunate and embarrassing. We can't hide from the facts and we can't make excuses," said Sergeant.

"What we have done since the game ended on Saturday night is discuss the issues with our contractors, introduced a new team of experts who have experience of managing our pallet system and looked for the best possible solution.

"It is imperative that John Toshack's side can have confidence in the playing surface and I believe they will be happy with the measures we are taking. Football obviously does not put the same pressure on the turf as rugby, but the players must have a safe, playable surface on which to play.

"That's our immediate priority and we will be working through the night on Tuesday and all day Wednesday to ensure the pitch is in the best possible condition for the game. Looking further forward, we will continue to consult with Sports Turf Research Institute and the Football League ahead of the Carling Cup final (in three weeks time).

"There are technical reasons behind some of the failures of the pitch system last weekend and we will be doing all we can to find the right solutions to them. The best stadium in the world must have a suitable playing surface for all its events."

Wales most decorated player Ryan Giggs said: "The rugby lads gave it a lot more of a battering that we would do so hopefully it will be okay for us."