FA chairman David Bernstein fails in bid to remain in role beyond 70

Action plan: David Bernstein, the FA chairman, wants government help (AFP)

FA chairman David Bernstein has failed in his bid to stay in the role beyond his 70th birthday.

Bernstein has been viewed as a force for good since he replaced Lord Triesman in December 2010, taking the bold decision to axe John Terry as England skipper as well as launching a new players' code of conduct earlier this week.

Yet he still has not managed to get the FA Council to amend their statutes to allow him to continue in his job beyond next spring.

"I respect the decision and I remain committed to fulfilling my responsibilities and to building on what we have achieved over the past two years," said Bernstein.

"Next year is a significant one in the FA's history and I look forward to leading the organisation in the months ahead."

PA