Football Association plans 150th anniversary celebrations

David Bernstein and Alex Horne

England will play against Scotland, Republic of Ireland and Brazil in 2013 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Football Association.

The three friendly matches, along with a wider tour of Brazil, headline the year-long celebrations.

In addition, Wembley will host the Champions League final in May.

FA chairman David Bernstein said: "It will be a terrific opportunity for us to showcase our work to the whole country and the wider world."

At an event to announce the anniversary celebrations, where the FA's new, golden crest was unveiled, Bernstein believes the organisation can be "proud" of its role in the game.

"It is a wonderful achievement for any organisation and I certainly hope it will capture the imagination in the way it has mine," he said.

"From humble beginnings to today's global spectacle, we can be proud of this country's contribution to football."

Other events include the FA England Awards at St George's Park on 3 February and a National Football Day on 10 August, while Chelsea's Stamford Bridge will host the 2013 Women's Champions League final.

The 150th anniversary itself - 26 October - will be marked at the Grand Connaught Rooms in Holborn.