The FA today announced that Chief Executive Brian Barwick will leave his post on 31 December 2008.

Barwick, who was appointed in January 2005, said: "This decision follows several weeks of discussions with FA Chairman Lord Triesman on the role of the Chief Executive within the new FA structure.

"I am sad to be leaving The FA - an organisation it has been a privilege to lead - but I believe it is in the best interests of all parties. I have always endeavored to do my job with passion, decency and integrity, and I believe I am leaving a strong legacy for the future.

"We have achieved a lot over the past three and a half years: opening the new Wembley Stadium, implementing the Structural Review and increasing our broadcast and commercial contracts to record income levels.

"The organisation is in better financial health than ever before, and I am also delighted to have seen the recent launch of the Respect programme, which is very important to me.

"On the pitch, I'm convinced that in Fabio Capello, the England team has the right Manager and a genuine chance of success, while I also believe the plans for the National Football Centre will benefit English football in the long term.

"I would like to pay tribute to The FA Board for their strong support, and especially thank my colleagues at The FA for their tremendous efforts during my tenure."

Lord Triesman said: "On behalf of everyone at The FA, I would like to express my sincere thanks to Brian for the stability and growth that he has brought to the organisation.

"Brian leaves with our best wishes for the future, and will always be welcome back as our guest at Wembley."