In a statement, Burns defended his record as chief executive, pointing out that the ITV Digital deal was brokered before he took up the post.

"Throughout my 21 months as chief executive, I have worked tirelessly to improve the League's position commercially and politically, to raise and enhance its public image and to ensure fair media representation," he said.

"A great deal of progress has been made and I leave behind a talented and dynamic executive team capable of taking the League forward well into the future.

"When I joined the League, the ITV Digital contract - the subject of the recent High Court legal action - was already in place, having been finalised by the previous administration."

Harris added: "I said on Sunday it would improve my lifestyle if I walked away.

"I could no longer concentrate on full-time roles I have elsewhere and now I am available to do that.

"I have a huge love of football and someone with some business experience like myself could be a valuable addition but the emotional and time commitment required is huge."

An overhaul of the Football League now looks likely with many First Division clubs calling for more power because they generate most of the income.

The possibility of Divisions Two and Three being combined into a regional set-up is also likely to be discussed.

The old Third Divisions North and South were scrapped in 1958 when the Fourth Division was created.