DEIN OUT GILL IN

Last updated : 04 June 2006 By Ed

Telegraph:

Following a vote by Premiership clubs at the League's annual summer meeting in Northants, Dein's place was taken by Manchester United's David Gill.

The Premiership's remaining three places on the board were retained by current FA directors Robert Coar, of Blackburn, Phil Gartside of Bolton and David Richards, the League chairman. It is a major blow for Dein, one of the FA's most influential power brokers over the last 10 years.

Dein championed Scolari's cause and, when the FA looked set to give the job to Steve McClaren, managed to persuade the five-man appointment committee to change their minds. He was left humiliated when Scolari publicly rejected the job, two days after being offered the position by Barwick.

Dein was also accused of acting improperly by protecting Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, the FA's first choice. Middlesbrough chairman Steve Gibson criticised Dein for preventing the FA from talking to Wenger, but Dein maintained that the Frenchman was interviewed and told Barwick he did not wish to be considered.

Despite that, his handling of the affair handed ammunition to his enemies, who have made the most of the opportunity to remove him from power.

Gill's appointment will be viewed with suspicion by some clubs who believe Manchester United want greater control over the running of the game, but United's chief executive is seen as an honest, straight-forward operator who will bring fresh ideas.

Gill said: "I'm delighted to be elected. I'm looking forward to working with my fellow members on the issues that face the game."

Dein's defeat comes 24 hours after he and Arsenal were accused of making a secret £1 million loan to a company involved in the 2001 takeover of Belgian feeder club Beveren. Although Dein and Arsenal insist they have not broken any rules, Fifa said last night that the FA must carry out a full investigation.