Barwick on Respect

FA Chief Executive Brian Barwick took part in BBC Radio Five Live's Monday Night Football Club this week.

Barwick spoke on a range of subjects from respect for referees to Fabio Capello and England along with studio guests Steve Claridge and Daily Star chief sports writer Brian Woolnough. On the issue of respect for referees, Barwick explained that he was determined to make a difference.

Barwick said: "We've asked people in the grassroots game about what they want changed in the game, and we had some excellent responses from over 40,000 people. Facilities and better pitch were among the responses, but number one by a mile was the issue of respect for referees.

"It's also important that pushy parents are put in their place, and as a parent who goes to watch his son play every Sunday I understand that. From those responses we went forward with a pilot scheme for ten weeks that involved a lot of referees, players and coaches and work towards a solution.

"We were criticised and people at the time said we were going for the soft end of the market - but in truth that is were the majority of people play their football and that is where you can have the most effect. But we didn't lose sight of the fact that it had to be a top-down process as well as bottom-up, and in speaking to our colleagues in the Professional Game it was clear that everybody wanted to be onboard.

"This is a very important initiative, and my own view is that in this job that you have a rare opportunity to make a difference and I want to make a difference."

On the subject of England, Barwick spoke about the appointment of Fabio Capello and how important it could prove to be that he was installed as England Manager in January.

"One of the things we have gained from the timing when we brought him in, is that Fabio has been able to watch the players a lot of times," Barwick explained. "He has also been able to get them together a number of times for friendly games and see them up close and personal.

"It was interesting in the summer when he picked 30 players and we only lost one or two through injury. I think that shows demonstrably how much the players are up for learning in the Capello regime.

"I absolutely believe that playing for England is hugely important for every player."