David Bernstein appointed FA chief

David Dein has been overlooked as chairman of the Football Association, with David Bernstein instead appointed for the role.

Bernstein, 67, is a chartered accountant and former chairman of Manchester City.

He presided over City’s return to the Premier League following their relegation to the third tier of English Football and was involved in negotiations to move the club to the City of Manchester Stadium.

Bernstein has been a director of Wembley Stadium since 2003, becoming the chairman in 2008.

He is also the President of the National Association of Disabled Supporters.

Former Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein had been widely tipped for the role, but was overlooked by the nomination committee chaired by Bolton chairman Phil Gartside.

“I am honoured to be asked to take on the role as Chairman of The FA,” Bernstein said.

“It is a tremendous challenge but I look forward to working with the Board, the staff at The FA and everyone in football from local playing fields to Wembley and the international stage.”

The FA Council are expected to ratify the appointment at a meeting on January 25.

Acting chairman Roger Burden, who withdrew his own application citing concerns about working with the FIFA executive committee, endorsed his successor.

“The board was united in its view that David would make an excellent choice as chairman of the organisation,” Burden said.

“I have worked with David for some years and have always been impressed by his professionalism and integrity. We look forward to working with David to take The FA forward in the best interests of football at all levels across the country.”