Bates poised to leave role with the FA

Ken Bates's resignation as Chelsea chairman means he will have to step down as a member of the Football Association Council.

Bates, who is 72, was too old to be a member of the FA board but was an active member of the Council and vicechairman of the FA Cup committee.

His resignation means he can no longer play any part at the FA.

"When his resignation is confirmed we would expect him to relinquish his responsibilities with the FA," said an FA spokesperson.

However, there could be a stay of execution until the end of the season for Bates if the Premier League request that he remains one of their five representatives on the Council until new elections during the close season.