Mystery surrounds FA chief executive´s exit

Ian Watmore surprisingly resigned as chief executive of England’s Football Association (FA), just months into the job, the governing body announced on its website here on Monday.

FA chairman Lord David Triesman said Watmore’s resignation had been accepted with “great regret” but refused to say why he’d quit, having only taken up the post before the start of this season after his appointment in February 2009.

“Ian Watmore tendered his resignation to me on Friday,” Triesman said.

“I asked him to re-consider over the weekend.

“However, he has confirmed today (Monday) that his position remains unchanged and I have accepted it with great regret.

“There will be a board meeting tomorrow (Tuesday) at noon (1200GMT). I am unable to make any further comment until after that meeting.”

Watmore joined the FA from the British civil service, where he had been permanent secretary at the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills.

Prior to 2004, he had worked in information technology for more than 20 years.

Watmore, after his appointment just over a year ago, said: “I’m delighted to be joining the Football Association as chief executive.

“It’s a great challenge and one I’m really looking forward to. With Lord Triesman and the board, Fabio Capello (the England manager) and the FA’s staff, I want to ensure we are achieving success on and off the pitch across all levels of the game.”