International Rugby Board (IRB) legal chief Darren Bailey is set to take up a new role at the Football Association (FA).

Bailey, who was head of legal and legislative affairs at the IRB, will become the FA's new director of football governance and regulation.

Bailey's appointment will not affect the FA's separate corporate legal arm.

He will work closely with his predecessor Jonathan Hall, who quit to take up a new position as director of football services with the FA in the summer, to ensure a smooth transition. His responsibilities will include dealing with the FA's disciplinary, football regulation, regulatory legal advice, financial regulation, doping control and equality and child protection functions.

Commenting on Bailey's appointment, FA Chairman Lord Triesman said: "[Bailey] has a strong background in sports regulation and governance as well as having a real understanding and love of football. He also has excellent international connections with FIFA, UEFA and the World Anti-Doping Agency, having worked in international sport and regulation for a substantial period."

He added: "Bailey has made a significant impact at the IRB and will play a key role in further strengthening the FA's commitment to leading and governing the game with confidence."

Bailey said: "I have worked exclusively in sport and the law for over 12 years and am very much relishing the opportunity of working for football and contributing to the achievement of the FA's vision."

Before joining the IRB Bailey worked in private practice at specialist sports law firm Townleys.

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