David Blood, former Football Association of Ireland President, dies

David Blood, the former President of the Football Association of Ireland, has died aged 81.

Blood had previously been President of the Leinster Football Association, and was heavily involved in the United Churches Football League, before moving into the lead role with the FAI between 2005 and 2010.

"David was first and foremost a gentleman," FAI President Gerry McAnaney said.

Anybody who was lucky enough to meet him through the medium of football will know exactly what I mean.

"With the United Churches Football League, the Leinster Football Assocation and the FAI, he was a man who would always help administrator and clubs in any way he could. I know his dedication to the FAI was renowned and his passion for Irish football was unsurpassed.

"Our thoughts at this time are with David's wife Dora, his brother Barney and all his many family and friends all across Ireland. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis."

Blood was President of the FAI during a period which saw much change at the held of the men's international side as Brian Kerr was replaced by Steven Staunton, only for the appointment to go badly wrong. Giovanni Trapattoni would take over from the former Ireland defender.

The period also saw the national side play their final game at the old Lansdowne Road as work on the new stadium got underway.