Bernstein nominated as FA chairman

22 December 2010 11:30

Former Manchester City chairman David Bernstein has been nominated the new chairman of the Football Association..

Bernstein, 67, is currently chairman of Wembley Stadium and he will take over as FA chairman if, as is expected, his appointment is endorsed by the FA council on January 25.

Former Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein had been the favourite to secure the post but Bernstein was recommended to the FA board by a nominations committee headed by Bolton chairman Phil Gartside.

Bernstein said: "I am honoured to be asked to take on the role as chairman of The FA. 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."

A chartered accountant, Bernstein was Manchester City chairman for five years, including the time they secured the lease for new stadium and Eastlands, and he has been Wembley chairman since 2008.

He also sits on the boards of several companies including French Connection, Ted Baker and Blacks Leisure, where he has been chairman since 1996. He is also President of the National Association of Disabled Supporters.

Acting FA chairman Roger Burden, who withdrew as a candidate earlier this month following England's failed bid for the 2018 World Cup on the grounds that he "could not trust FIFA", said: "The board was united in its view that David would make an excellent choice as chairman of the organisation.

"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."

Gartside said: "David was the outstanding candidate for the role. He combines strong business and leadership skills with tremendous insight and knowledge of football."

Source: PA