Instead, the investigation recently launched by the FA relates solely to the circumstances behind the initial release of a press statement denying an affair between the Swede and Faria Alam.

The FA were forced into an embarrassing U-turn just a few days later, when it became clear that a relationship had indeed taken place.

Solicitor Peter Norbury, of the FA’s specialist legal advisors Eversheds, was therefore asked to investigate the evidence as to whether any employee - including Eriksson and Alam – had deliberately lied.

This could constitute breach of contract and leave that person open to disciplinary action, a route which will be discussed by the 12 board members this afternoon after hearing Norbury’s submission.

Eriksson has nevertheless already insisted his innocence during his interview with Norbury on Tuesday and, while the Swede will not be present at today’s meeting, his views will be conveyed to the board members.

The chances are that the England coach will be allowed to carry on in his post, albeit with the knowledge that his support at the FA is not as unanimous as it once was.

While Eriksson and Alam are at the centre of the investigation, the FA have also probed the actions of their own executive director David Davies, who initially asked the England coach whether the reports of an affair were true.

While Davies could insist he was given a categorical assurance, the former BBC journalist may choose to accept that a simple misunderstanding took place, potentially clearing both of them.

While chief executive Mark Palios has already resigned, FA chairman Geoff Thompson, who will chair today’s meeting, was also said to be considering his position as a result of the embarrassing saga.