The English Football Association are confident new chief executive Ian Watmore will have the smoothest of transitions when he takes up his new post on June 1.
Watmore emerged as the number one candidate following interviews with a three-man shortlist that also included former Arsenal managing director Keith Edelman, and quickly accepted the job.
Although there are bound to be accusations of 'cronyism' levelled against FA chairman Lord Triesman, who used to work in the same government department as Watmore, Soho Square officials feel such comments overlook the high regard with which the 50-year-old is held within Whitehall circles.
"It is a great challenge and one I am really looking forward to," said Watmore.
"With Lord Triesman and the (FA) board, Fabio Capello and the FA's staff, I want to ensure we are achieving success on and off the pitch across all levels of the game."
Watmore will continue in his present post as permanent secretary for the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills until the summer before moving into his new role with the FA.