FA set for overhaul
Barwick hails ‘exciting new era’
Poll blows final whistle
The Football Association is set for the biggest overhaul in its 144-year history after narrowly voting in favour of the report produced by Lord Burns. At the FA’s AGM held at Wembley Stadium, 78.5% of shareholders backed the recommended structural review. A 75% majority was required. It gives the go-ahead for the appointment of an independent chairman who will succeed current chairman Geoff Thompson when he steps down next year. There will also be changes to the board, a semi-autonomous football regulatory authority that will govern the game and take decisions on discipline and new funding formula that divides profits equally between the professional and national games. Lord Burns described the FA’s structure as “inadequate and not designed with the modern demands of a sports governing body in mind”. Chief executive Brian Barwick welcomes the positive vote:
“Today’s decision marks the start of an exciting new era for the Football Association and the end of a very complex process. I would like to thank the shareholders for their support in bringing in these changes, which I am convinced will benefit the FA and the game as a whole. This was a vote for change and for a modern, representative and effective FA, which is better equipped to take decisions in the wider interests of the game.”
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England’s highest profile referee Graham Poll confirms his retirement. The Tring official’s final game was yesterday’s Championship Play-Off Final between Derby County and West Bromwich Albion. The 43 year-old took charge of his first Football League game in 1991 and first Premiership game in 1995. The highlights of his career were appointments at Euro 2000 and the 2002 and 2006 World Cups. He also took charge of the FA Cup final in 2000 - the last to be played at the old Wembley. However, he is more likely to be remembered for showing Croatia’s Josip Simunic three yellow cards before sending him off in a match against Australia during last year’s World Cup in Germany. Poll has retired six years early as he is said to be tired of the constant barrage of criticism from managers, players and supporters. It is believed that he has already found new employment in the media.
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