The single issue IFC document on child protection in football says that the organisation has made enormous progress in the last five years and is filled with admiration for the work that is done in undertaking the protection of children.

It states: "The FA’s [child protection] strategy has, in the last five years, driven and facilitated an enormous programme of change and represents remarkable achievement at all levels.

"Safeguarding children in football is not a task to be under-estimated. The work that has been done in the last five years and the progress made is astonishing.

"The IFC joins the very large number of informed people who regard with great respect the individuals throughout the game who have made things happen and brought to the challenge dedication, commitment and a real care for children in football’s charge.

"The IFC is filled with admiration for the work that all these people do and for the skills in the sensitive and difficult work they undertake in the protection of children."

IFC Chairman Professor Derek Fraser said: "In recent years the complex issue of child protection has assumed growing importance in football, in sport generally and in our wider society.

"Football has certainly taken child protection seriously and, as our report shows, much commendable progress has taken place."

The FA has led the way in developing policies in this area, under the banner of GOAL. The organisation is in regular dialogue with Government, Police, Social Services and NSPCC – and has a well established Child Protection Policy.

It is estimated that around four million children play football in England. The vast majority play outside the professional game in football administered and organised largely by volunteers, the last survey showed volunteers number 431,000.

County Football Associations and independent bodies working with The FA oversee the organisation and development of the amateur affiliated clubs, their leagues and development – with the help of an annual FA grant.

FA Head of Education and Child Protection Tony Pickerin said: "Child protection is high on The FA's agenda. The goal is to have someone at every club in the country aware of Child Protection and Best Practice, whether it's a Premiership Academy or a Sunday morning park side.

"The FA believes football can have a powerful positive influence on children. But that means everyone involved in football must take on the responsibility of looking after those children that want to play the game.

"We applaud those clubs who are being proactive in appointing a designated person for child protection and acknowledge the exceptional hard work of the County Associations and their Child Protection Officers"

"We’re delighted that The IFC has recognised the big steps we’ve made and The FA in turn acknowledges the ongoing work we still have to do."