FA's director of comms Adrian Bevington to leave after 17 years

Bevington, 43, joined the FA in 1997 and was appointed group director of communications in 2004 before becoming managing director of Club England four years ago.

In 2011 he also resumed executive responsibility for FA group communications.

Bevington said: "It has been a privilege to work for The FA, but after almost two decades I want a new challenge. I have been considering my departure for some time and discussed this with chairman Greg Dyke recently. I am grateful to Greg and the FA board for their support over the years and in agreeing to my departure at the end of the month.

"The FA has provided me with tremendous experience and I look forward to drawing on this in the future. While it is a disappointment to leave without England winning a major trophy, I am convinced the foundations for success are now in place."

FA chairman, Greg Dyke, added: "I’d like to thank Adrian for his contribution and loyalty over almost 17 years at the FA. His experience and knowledge have been invaluable at so many levels, but he has made clear he is at a time in his life where he is ready to move on.

"I know that everybody who has worked with him over the past 17 years will miss him, and on behalf of the Football Association I would like to wish him every success in the future."