Saddened Barwick prepares for FA exit

11:04pm Wednesday 20th August 2008

Football Association chief executive Brian Barwick has expressed sadness after it was confirmed he will be leaving his post at Soho Square.

Barwick will depart on December 31 after it became obvious his idea of how the job should be done differed markedly from that of chairman Lord Triesman.

"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," said Barwick in a statement.

"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."

After the eras of previous chief executives Mark Palios, Adam Crozier and Graham Kelly, Barwick will at least leave the FA free of any stigma of controversy.

He may also point to his strong record, which includes building Wembley and gaining agreement for the National Football Centre in Burton, as well as the record TV deals he negotiated, as proof his departure is to the detriment of the organisation.

"We have achieved a lot over the past three-and-a-half years: opening the new Wembley Stadium, implementing the structural review and increasing our broadcast and commercial contracts to record income levels," added Barwick.

"The organisation is in better financial health than ever before, and I am also delighted to have seen the recent launch of the Respect programme, which is very important to me.

"On the pitch, I'm convinced that in Fabio Capello, the England team has the right manager and a genuine chance of success, while I also believe the plans for the National Football Centre will benefit English football in the long term.

"I would like to pay tribute to the FA board for their strong support, and especially thank my colleagues at the FA for their tremendous efforts during my tenure."

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