FA boss steps down

The chief executive of the FA, Mark Palios, has resigned.

He had been cleared of attempting to mislead the FA over tabloid claims of his affair with an FA secretary, but more recent allegations that the FA was prepared to give 'chapter and verse' to the red-top tabloid in question about Sven Goran Eriksson's affair with the same woman, on condition that the allegation about Palios was kept secret, seem to have forced his hand.

Palios issued a statement on Sunday expressing his regret at recent events.

"It has been a privilege to be Chief Executive of The FA," he said, "but with privilege comes the burden of responsibility. And it has been important for me to take ultimate responsibility for everything The FA has done in good times and bad.

"Personally, I do not accept that I have been guilty of any wrong doing. But it has become clear to me that my action tonight is essential to enable The Football Association to begin to return to normality."

The FA has already convened a special meeting, taking place this Thursday, to discuss Eriksson's conduct in these events, and the FA says it will make no further statement until they have the full facts.