Barwick apologies for failure

Writing to members of the England Supporter's Club, FA Chairman Brian Barwick has publicly apologised for failing to qualify for the Euro 2008 tournament in Austria and Switzerland.

“We realise everyone will be hurting after our failure to qualify for Euro 2008," said Barwick, who was the man responsible for hiring Steve McClaren and new boss Fabio Capello.

"While we can never take qualification for major tournaments for granted, it is only right that England expect to compete at the top level.

"We cannot shy away from the fact that the results and performances fell well short of our expectations. We are especially sorry for you, the fans.”