Gill must sever United ties to become the new FA chairman

By Bob Cass

Published: 18:07 EST, 23 February 2013 | Updated: 18:07 EST, 23 February 2013

David Gill faces another major decision if he wants to become the head of football in this country.

The 55-year-old must sever all ties with Old Trafford before he could be a candidate to replace David Bernstein as chairman of the Football Association.

Stepping down: David Bernstein
Going: United chief executive David Gill

Top men: David Gill (right) and FA chairman David Bernstein (left)

In a move which shocked United followers, Gill announced last week he was standing down after 10 years as chief executive.

But he elected to stay on as a United director and, unless he changes his mind, he would be ineligible to stand to succeed Bernstein, who will quit this summer after losing his battle to extend his term of office beyond his 70th birthday.

 

Gill, whose administrative skills are admired around the world, is seen by many as ideal to take the top job in English football.

He would be a clear favourite - ahead of former Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein; ex-Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry and FA national game board director Roger Burden - if he entered the race.

But Gill has said: 'I am looking forward to continuing my involvement on the club board and I hope to be able to make a contribution to the game on a wider national and European level.'

He will seek election to UEFA's executive committee in May and he is vice-chairman of the FA board of directors.

Gill's present role at United does not prevent him standing for the UEFA committee.

The three-man FA selection panel will meet in May to recommend a new chairman to the board.

Ed Woodward will take over from Gill at United at the end of the season. Manager Sir Alex Ferguson has already had top-level discussions with the executive vice-chairman about future plans.

The changes on the executive floor will not affect his position.

A United source said: 'Sir Alex had a great relationship with David Gill but recognised the reasons why he left; he had to move on. He is now looking forward to an equally close, successful partnership with the new man. United have a history of making senior appointments from within the club.'