18/11/2004

IFA poised to unveil new Chief Executive

The Irish Football Association (IFA) look set to announce experienced sports administrator Howard Wells as its first ever Chief Executive.

Mr Wells, who is a former chief executive of English club sides Watford and Ipswich Town, was the inaugural chairman of UK Sport and also chaired the Central Council of Physical Recreation.

As well as ensuring that the IFA runs on a more professional basis, the 57-year-old will also be responsible for the implementation of the Soccer Task Force Strategy including the new National Stadium which is muted for the Maze site in Co Antrim.

Ironically, Mr Wells is a former goalkeeper with Wycombe Wanderers a club once managed by current Northern Ireland boss Lawrie Sanchez.

The IFA is expected to officially unveil Mr Wells as their new chief executive at a media conference in Belfast tomorrow.

Today celebrating its 124th birthday, the Association has made plans to celebrate next year's 125th anniversary with a game against Germany in June as well as hosting the UEFA Under-19 Championship, not forgeting the highly prestigious World Cup qualifying home fixtures against Wales and England.

(MB/SP)

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