I´ve left FA in good shape, says defiant Barwick

FA chief executive Brian Barwick believes he will leave English football in rude health after announcing he is set to step down at the end of the year.

Barwick, who appointed Fabio Capello as England coach, released a statement confirming his decision to quit after his country's 2-2 draw against the Czech Republic on Wednesday

It is believed Barwick's exit has come as a result of disagreements with FA chairman Lord Triesman on how the English game's governing body should be developed.

Barwick is said to have disagreed with Triesman over the FA's strategic policies and the appointment of key figures in the 2018 World Cup bid team.

Triesman, a former Government minister, appears to have won the dispute and is likely to take a more hands-on role at the FA after Barwick's farewell speech.

“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.

“I believe I am leaving a strong legacy for the future. We have achieved a lot over the past three years: opening the new Wembley stadium, implementing the structural review and increasing our broadcast and commercial contracts to record income levels.

“The organisation is in better financial health than ever 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.”

While Barwick earned kudos for his capture of Capello, he also presided over Steve McClaren's dismal failure to qualify for Euro 2008 and the bungled attempt to appoint Luiz Felipe Scolari as Sven Goran Eriksson's successor.