David Bernstein has been named the new chairman of the Football Association following a board meeting on Wednesday morning.
The FA has been looking to fill the position on a permanent basis since the sudden departure of Lord Triesman in May and a number of high-profile names were reportedly in the frame.
Acting chairman Roger Burden announced earlier this month that he would be withdrawing his application in protest at Fifa's World Cup bidding process, with Russia getting the nod for the 2018 tournament ahead of England.
Former Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein had been among the favourites, along with ex-Football League chairman David Sheepshanks.
However, the decision has instead gone in the favour of former Manchester City chairman Bernstein after he was recommended by the nominations committee.
Excellent choice
The committee was chaired by Phil Gartside and consisting of Michael Game, Tony Kleanthous and John Ward.
Bernstein, 67, is currently chairman of Wembley Stadium and he will officially take over as FA chairman if, as is expected, his appointment is endorsed by the FA council on 25th January.
He was on the Man City board for nine years, five of them as chairman, and is thought to have the right credentials to be successful with the FA.
Burden 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."
Honoured
Gartside added: "David was the outstanding candidate for the role. He combines strong business and leadership skills with tremendous insight and knowledge of football."
Bernstein, a chartered accountant who also sits on the boards of several companies including French Connection, Ted Baker and Blacks Leisure and is the president of the National Association of Disabled Supporters, is proud to have been appointed.
He 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."
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