The FA are set to appoint ex-policeman Steve Lewis

The Football Association are close to appointing former policeman Steve Lewis as the new head of security for the England team.

Current head of teams and corporate security Tony Conniford is leaving his position after the World Cup and Lewis is likely to step up to replace his colleague.

Lewis is currently Conniford’s deputy but is expected be promoted into the top job in the coming weeks.

It is hoped appointing from within will ease the transitional period as a result of Conniford’s departure.

Security expert Lewis, who previously worked as a hooligan spotter for Premier League teams in Europe, is here in Qatar with Gareth Southgate’s squad and is already a regular within the senior England camp.

He has also worked closely with the Lionesses since joining the FA as a security advisor.

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The highly respected Conniford’s imminent departure arrives a major blow to the FA given his expertise and popularity within the England camp.

Before joining the FA in January 2014, Conniford held the role of assistant director of the UK Football Policing Unit.

‘We said farewell on Wednesday night to Tony, who is leaving us after nine years, that was quite emotional as well,’ said Kalvin Phillips. ‘For me, he has been one of the guys I have always gone to when needing help.

‘He is a massive part of the England set up as well. It was quite emotional.’