Palios accepts FA challenge

The English Football Association has appointed Mark Palios as its new chief executive.

FA delight
The 50-year-old accountant has been brought in to replace Adam Crozier, who resigned from the post last October. "We are delighted that Mark has agreed to become the FA's new chief executive," FA chairman Geoff Thompson told the association's official website.

'Business experience'
"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," Thompson added. "Our decision to rebuild 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."

Professional career
The Birkenhead-born Palios spent 17 years as a professional player, playing over 400 games for his local side Tranmere Rovers FC and Crewe Alexandra FC in the English lower divisions. Playing in midfield, he scored 33 goals for Tranmere while studying to be an accountant with Coopers & Lybrand Deloitte in Liverpool.

'A very important period'
He also captained Welsh side Bangor City FC when they took part in the 1985/86 UEFA Cup Winners' Cup before retiring from the game to become 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. He will take up his position on 1 July.