While the Reds go into the match as overwhelming favourites, Rush says the Bluebirds could well emerge with the trophy if Kenny Dalglish's side come into the match ill-prepared.

While the Championship outfit have nothing to lose, their Premier League opponents are expected to pick up their first trophy in six years, and that pressure may prove to be their downfall.

Rush told the BBC: "You have to be strong enough mentally to deal with that pressure. If you can't put up with it mentally then it's going to be a problem.

"If you get to any final there is no easy ride. It's what you make of it.

"Yes, Liverpool are favourites to win but if they go about it with the wrong preparation they are in for a big shock. Cardiff are capable of beating any side on the day.

"This is why cup finals are so special because on the day anyone can beat anyone.

"That's what it's all about and that's why for me the FA Cup and the Carling Cup are the best cups in the world. That's the beauty of the cup."

The Reds will be making their first appearance at the new Wembley Stadium with their last silverware coming in the FA Cup at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium in 2006.

Rush added: "It's a no-lose situation for Cardiff because they are not expected to win. But deep down I think the supporters, the players and the manager will think if they can get it together and Liverpool don't, they could win it."