Special reports

Last month, Patrick Nelson, who is currently in charge of English league club Macclesfield, was selected as the IFA's choice to replace Howard Wells who it sacked in October 2008.

The 48-year-old businessman has told BBC Newsline that he did not make the IFA aware of all his dealings or company directorships.

Julian O'Neill adds:

"At the very least, Patrick Nelson's appointment has been delayed, possibly until August 1st, for several reasons.

He still expects the job and told me he would have no outside interests that would conflict or detract from a full commitment to the IFA post.

However, there are likely to be urgent discussions at IFA HQ in Belfast next week, possibly with a board meeting necessary to brief members fully of fresh developments.

The appointment - the IFA hired outside experts to run the process - is being watched closely in government circles.

Corporate governance of the IFA has been an issue because it receives government grants.

Heading down the track at the IFA's AGM in a fortnight is a motion which, if passed, would change the IFA's board set-up considerably.

Sources reveal the IFA has been warned future public money, for any new stadium project for example, could be at risk by a vote to remove independent, external board members."