Wells handed new IFA role

By Kenny Archer

The Irish Football Association (IFA) have appointed Howard Wells as their first ever chief executive.

Previous experience
Englishman Wells, 57, previously held a similar role at English clubs Ipswich Town FC and Watford FC and was also the inaugural chairman of the British sports funding and administration body UK Sport. The new IFA position came about due to government reorganisation of football in Northern Ireland.

'A major challenge'
A former player in the English non-league game in the 1970s, Wells admitted: "In terms of actual detail I don't know a lot about Northern Ireland football, but I've had a lot of information sent to me. Not a lot of practical knowledge but I see that as a major challenge. It is also about hard work, good vision and honest endeavour."

Taylor backing
Former England manager Graham Taylor, who worked with Wells at Watford, said: "He is very thorough and will adopt a professional approach to the job."

Making strides
Meanwhile, IFA president Jim Boyce said the body, who stage the 2004/05 UEFA European Under-19 Championship final round, is making strides in improving their media profile and encouraging support for the national team from the often excluded Roman Catholic community.

'Positive response'
Boyce said: "[Community relations officer] Michael Boyd has been a breath of fresh air. I am getting a positive response from many of the Catholic population."