Brian Barwick has agreed by mutual consent with the Football Association (FA) to leave his post as its chief executive.

The FA is expected to comment on the news after England's friendly international against the Czech Republic at Wembley this evening, but it is thought Barwick could remain in the role until the end of the year.

Times Online understands that the decision is related to problematic relationship that Barwick has had with Lord Triesman since he was appointed chairman of the FA in January.

The decision will come as a shock as Barwick is thought to have done a reasonable job, playing a key role in the appointment of Fabio Capello and helping the FA secure big increases in television revenues from a deal recently struck with ITV and Setanta.

He also gained agreement for the National Football Centre at Burton, a controversial scheme many were opposed to but which the FA felt was imperative if English football was to regain its status in the world game.

However, Barwick was criticised for the bungled way Sven-Goran Eriksson was replaced, being spotted flying to meet Luiz Felipe Scolari, then claiming the Brazilian had not been offered the job when the Chelsea manager decided against it anyway.

Barwick, a former controller of sport for ITV television, was also implicated in the hugely disappointing reign of Steve McClaren, the former England manager.

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