Youth holds key for Eini

FOOTBALL Ofer Eini will focus on youth development after being appointed chairman of the Israel FA.

Eini succeeds Avi Luzon who served two terms in the position, but will remain active in football as a member of Uefa’s 15-man Executive Committee.

Having stepped down as head of Israel’s powerful Histadrut Trade Union movement earlier this year, Eini stood unopposed in the elections.

He said: “My priorities are building a youth academy, connecting more children to football, instilling belief in Israeli soccer, dealing with violence and racism among fans, increasing transparency and reducing the Israel FA’s financial deficit.”

Luzon responded to criticism from Sports Minister Limor Livnat for poor administration and described the past seven years have “been a success”.