On Monday, on behalf of The Football Association, I instigated an urgent inquiry into the circumstances which led to The FA issuing legal statements based on misleading information.

I have received categorical assurances from Chief Executive Mark Palios that he did not mislead or attempt to mislead The FA or its officials. I am satisfied by the Chief Executive’s re-assurances.

The enquiry remains ongoing and the findings will be submitted to The FA Board at a special meeting on 05 August 2004.

The FA will not be making any further statement until the full facts have been gathered and analysed.