The FA can confirm that Michael Johnson has voluntarily stepped down from his role on The Football Association's Inclusion Advisory Board with immediate effect.
Johnson, who made over 500 career appearances for Notts County, Birmingham City and Derby County, commented: "I've taken time over the weekend to reflect on the media coverage from last week and feel that it's in the best interests of all concerned if I step down from my duties with the Inclusion Advisory Board.
"My position on the Inclusion Advisory Board was voluntary and I've decided to use that time to continue my personal development and education within equality."
"I remain a big advocate of inclusion in football and have actively supported The FA's COACH programme which offers aspiring coaches from Black and Minority Ethnic backgrounds a chance to progress their football qualifications."
The Inclusion Advisory Board's chair, Heather Rabbatts, said: "It's unfortunate that Michael has decided to step down but he remains 100 per cent behind the aims of the Inclusion Advisory Board and is someone that we will be speaking to on a regular basis as we progress throughout this year and beyond.
"He has a wealth of experience in both domestic and international football and is carving out a coaching career with Birmingham City so he's someone that can bring vital expertise to the work of the Inclusion Advisory Board over time."
