The English Football Association's new chairman, David Bernstein, has met UEFA president Michel Platini and senior UEFA officials for discussions at the House of European Football. 

Mr Bernstein met UEFA president Michel Platini and senior UEFA officials for discussions at the European governing body's headquarters in Switzerland. Mr Bernstein was appointed as FA chairman on 25 January.

"I'm delighted to be here," said Mr Bernstein. "I've made it an early point, on my eleventh day as chairman of the FA, to come over and see UEFA's president and key executives. I feel it is vitally important that the FA develops and progresses relationships with UEFA and other bodies. There are a lot of pressing issues, a lot of which we can develop together."

The FA chairman said he was looking forward to getting down to work not only together with UEFA, but also to help nurture the future development of English football. "I have a few key strands of development which revolve around football itself," said Mr Bernstein of his plans. "Development of youth football in England, respect in many senses and governance."

English football followers are keen to see the national team emulate the club sides and win international honours. Mr Bernstein spelled out his wish. "It's got to be that England is successful as a team, that's what the fans want," he reflected. "To see us win a major competition ... it's been a long while since we've had that sort of success, and there is a great national desire for it."

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Published 17/02/2011