CHERRIES’ FA Cup third-round clash with Oldham Athletic has now been officially switched to Vitality Stadium.

The contest was set to be played at the League Two Latics’ Boundary Park on Saturday (3pm) but the pitch in Greater Manchester has been deemed unplayable.

Rather than having to postpone the contest, Harry Kewell’s side will now travel to face Jason Tindall’s men with a place in the fourth round at stake.

A statement on Cherries' website read: "Originally scheduled to be played at the Latics' Boundary Park home, the decision to switch the venue has been taken due to the current frozen condition of the playing surface in Greater Manchester.

"With temperatures remaining low and below freezing in the area, the Football Association has sanctioned the change in venue to ensure the fixture can still go ahead, with the change meaning the broadcast partner is also being able to fulfill its obligation.

"The match, which will be played behind closed doors, will retain the original kick-off time, getting under way at 3pm on Saturday, January 9, being broadcast live on BT Sport Extra 6."

A statement from the Latics said: "If the fixture remained at Boundary Park it would have been in jeopardy and potentially had financial penalties alongside impacting on the club’s participation in the competition.

"The decision is supported by both clubs and in the current climate with the fixture being behind-closed-doors, this is the most logical option to ensure the fixture is played to a natural conclusion.

"Since the last home game on Boxing Day, the club and its grounds staff have done everything possible to give this cup fixture the best chance to be hosted at Boundary Park, but unfortunately on this occasion the hard work and additional assistance from other local clubs wasn’t enough.

"Oldham Athletic would like to place on record its thanks to all those who have helped and assisted and will now continue to prepare properly for what will be an away cup fixture at the weekend."