5 Jul 2010Former minister calls for FA overhaul

Football Leagues/ Association and Governance

Ex-sports minister Richard Caborn has joined the growing chorus of criticism directed at English football's governing body and pointed to the redevelopment of the German game as the example to follow.

Speaking to BBC Sport, the former MP for Sheffield Central claimed that Germany's national side is currently benefiting from a "repositioning of [the] governance of football", but dismissed suggestions he wants to become the new FA chairman.

"Is the FA fit for purpose? No, I don't think it is," he said. "I believe the governance of the game is not prepared to stand up to its responsibilities."

Mr Caborn publicly questioned the impact that the £750 million investment in Wembley Stadium has had on grassroots football in recent years and suggested that the FA should not have taken charge of the project.

Last week, Wigan Athletic chairman Dave Whelan told the broadcaster that the English Premier League should run the national side instead of the FA.

Written by Paul Roberts

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