LONDON, August 20, 2008 (AFP) - English Football Assocation (FA) chief executive Brian Barwick confirmed on Wednesday that he will step down from his post at the end of the year.

News of Barwick's departure leaked out just as England's 2-2 friendly draw with the Czech Republic was due to start at Wembley.

Barwick, who was appointed in 2005 and oversaw Fabio Capello's appointment as coach, later announced he will officially leave on December 31.

The former television executive, speaking in a statement released after the final whistle at Wembley, admitted that his departure was the result of lengthy discussions with FA chairman Lord Triesman over the role of the chief executive at Soho Square.

'This decision follows several weeks of discussions with FA chairman Lord Triesman on the role of the chief executive within the new FA structure,' Barwick said.

'I am sad to be leaving the FA - an organisation it has been a privilege to lead - but I believe it is in the best interests of all parties.

'I have always endeavoured to do my job with passion, decency and integrity and I believe I am leaving a strong legacy for the future.

'We have achieved a lot over the past three years, opening the new Wembley, implementing the structural review and increasing our broadcast and commerical contracts to record income levels.

'On the pitch I'm convinced that in Fabio Capello the England team has the right manager and a genuine chance of success.'

Triesman added: 'On behalf of everyone at the FA I would like to express my sincere thanks to Brian for the stability and growth he has brought to the organisation.'