Boyce will steer clear, not interfere

Jim Boyce has promised he will not interfere after his 12-year tenure as president of the Irish Football Association came to a dramatic end.

He has been replaced by former vice-president Raymond Kennedy following a secret ballot.

The voting ended in a tie but after a discussion with Kennedy, Boyce decided to stand down.

Boyce said: “Northern Ireland football is on a high at the moment.

“There is a new office bearer and I will not be interfering in any way in the running of the Irish Football Association, or the decision making.”

Boyce will keep his FIFA and UEFA roles after being made an honorary life president of the IFA.

David Martin replaces Kennedy as vice-president with Neil Jardine named treasurer. Kennedy certainly brings plenty of the experience to the IFA’s top job.

He has been involved in various committees of the governing body during the past 31 years.

Northern Ireland are going through a period of change with Kennedy’s appointment coming in the wake of Nigel Worthington taking over as manager.

He replaced Lawrie Sanchez, now in charge of Fulham, after he led the province to the top of their Euro 2008 qualifying group.