Barwick shows support for Capello

Departing FA chief executive Brian Barwick has confirmed his faith in England manager Fabio Capello.

England produced a disappointing performance as they drew 2-2 with the Czech Republic at Wembley and they had to rely on a scrappy last-minute equaliser by Joe Cole to avoid defeat.

Barwick was a key figure in the decision to appoint Capello but he will not be around to support the Italian for much longer because it was announced before the match that the administrator will leave his job at the end of the year.

Barwick said: "I'm convinced that in Fabio Capello, the England team has the right manager and a genuine chance of success."

FA chairman Lord Triesman has made sweeping changes since he was appointed in January.

But reports suggest he did not believe Barwick had the business experience needed to modernise the organisation.

In a statement, Barwick said: "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 endeavoured 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.

"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."

© Independent Television News Limited 2008. All rights reserved.

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