Albion chief executive Paul Barber will play a role in the future of Wembley following his return to the FA Council as a Premier League representative.

Barber had to relinquish his place as a Football League rep when the Seagulls were promoted from the Championship.

However, he has now returned to the Council after receiving the support of other Premier League clubs.

They voted for him at the expense of long-serving Chelsea secretary David Barnard at the annual meeting in Harrogate.

Barber joins Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis, Tottenham’s director of football operations Rebecca Caplehorn and Bournemouth chairman Jeff Mostyn, who were all re-elected.

Barber was on the FA Board when the decision was made to build the new Wembley.

His return to the Council coincides with the potential sale of the national stadium to Fulham owner Shahid Khan for a reported £900 million.

The final decision rests with the Board but FA chairman Greg Clarke reassured Council members last month that a deal would not be sanctioned without their approval.

Albion chairman Tony Bloom has hailed Bloom’s Council comeback.

Bloom said: “Once again this appointment underlines his standing and credentials at the very top level of English football.

“On behalf of the Premier League clubs he has a responsibility to represent the professional game in helping to shape the very future of English football.”

Barber joined Albion six years ago following spells at the FA, Spurs and Vancouver Whitecaps.

During his time at the FA he was heavily involved in England’s preparations for the World Cup in South Korea and Japan in 2002, when Sven-Goran Eriksson’s side reached the quarter-finals.

Barber’s Council duties include attending England’s quarter-final in Russia if Gareth Southgate’s team progress to that stage of the tournament.