By, Jennifer Lipman
1 min read
ByJennifer Lipman, Jennifer Lipman
David Bernstein has been appointed the new chairman of the Football Association (FA).
The Jewish former chairman of Manchester City, 67, was named as the permanent replacement to Lord Triesman, who resigned in May following a scandal.
The choice of Mr Bernstein was a surprise to many as the Jewish former FA and Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein had also been heavily tipped for the position
Mr Bernstein left Manchester City in 2003 after five years to take on a Director role at the revamped Wembley Stadium, where he became chairman in 2008.
An accountant, he sits on the boards of the clothing companies French Connection and Ted Baker.
Passionate about football, he once revealed to the JC that in 1956, when Manchester City beat Birmingham 3-1 to win the FA Cup, he watched the game despite it being the afternoon of his barmitzvah.
Mr Bernstein said he was honoured to be chosen.
He said: “It is a tremendous challenge but I look forward to working with the Board, the staff at The FA and everyone in football from local playing fields to Wembley and the international stage.”
Acting chairman Roger Burden called Mr Bersntein an “excellent choice”.
He said: “I have worked with David for some years and have always been impressed by his professionalism and integrity."
His appointment must be officially confirmed by the FA Council at a meeting in January.
