FA chief Barwick to leave post

FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION chief executive Brian Barwick is to leave his post at the end of the year.

The decision was confirmed by FA officials shortly after England’s friendly against the Czech Republic at Wembley last night.

“I am sad to be leaving the FA — an organisation it has been a privilege to lead — but I believe it is in the best interests of all parties,” Barwick said.

“I have always endeavoured to do my job with passion, decency and integrity, and I believe I am leaving a strong legacy for the future.”

Although the news of his departure had not been anticipated, it has been known for some time that Barwick has not seen eye to eye with new chairman Lord Triesman, which could be one of the reasons behind the development.

Appointed in late 2004, Barwick has generally been viewed as doing a reasonable job since taking up his position in January 2005.

Certainly no-one could quibble at the vast increase in TV revenues he gained from the deal which has just been launched with ITV and Setanta.

Barwick has also gained agreement for the National Football Centre at Burton, a controversial scheme many were opposed but Trevor Brooking felt was imperative if English football was ever to regain its status in the game.

However, Barwick also bore the brunt of responsibility for the bungled way in which Sven-Goran Eriksson was replaced, spotted flying to meet Luiz Felipe Scolari, then claiming the Brazilian had not been offered the job when he decided against it after all.

The blame for the ill-fated reign of Steve McClaren was also pinned at Barwick’s door.