The English Football Association (FA) has named Mark Palios as its new chief executive.
Palios, who will take up his new position on 1 July, was not the FA’s initial choice to succeed Adam Crozier who resigned last year, but he was approached after the original choice, US-based executive Peter Littlewood, turned the job down.
“We are delighted that Mark has agreed to become the FA’s new chief executive,” Thompson told www.TheFA.com.
“First and foremost, Mark’s business experience will be a huge asset to us at a time when the FA and the game as a whole must face up to a number of challenges
“Our decision to re-build Wembley means our business and our finances are considerably more complex than at any time in our history.
“Secondly, Mark has played the game at professional and amateur level, and this can only be an asset in his new role.”
Palios spent 17 years as a professional, playing more than 400 games for Tranmere Rovers and Crewe Alexandra. After retiring from the game in 1986, he became a full-time accountant.
“I am very excited at the prospect of leading the FA through a very important period in its history,” said Palios.
“From what I can see, the FA clearly has talented and committed staff and loyal and high quality commercial partners.
“The FA enjoys a fabulous name in world football and owns some of the game’s most prestigious brands, including the FA Cup, the England team and Wembley.
“All of this provides us with a firm foundation on which to take our business forward.”
