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Michel Platini is planning to stand for election as FIFA president

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Sky Sports News HQ understands that Michel Platini is thought to be close to entering the running to succeed Sepp Blatter as President.

UEFA president Michel Platini is expected to announce his intention to run for FIFA presidency this week.

Sky Sports News HQ understands a decision has been made, with further talks planned on Wednesday, but the exact date of the announcement has yet to be confirmed.

Platini has the support of at least four of the six confederations in world football, and a 'growing number of nations in Asia', according to sources.

Platini held talks in Zurich last week with Asian Football Confederation president, Sheikh Salman, and Kuwait’s FIFA executive member, Sheikh Ahmad.

Platini and outgoing president Sepp Blatter sat side-by-side at the start of an association meeting in St Petersburg on Saturday, before the World Cup qualifying draw.

And Blatter recently told a news conference at FIFA headquarters: "I wish all the candidates best success, and also to Michel Platini."

FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter and UEFA President Michel Platini
Image: Platini sat next to Sepp Blatter (left) at a meeting before the recent World Cup draw

Pedro Pinto, UEFA’s chief of press, said following discussions in Zurich: "He (Platini) has received many, many kind words of support regarding his position as a leader in world football and what that could bring to FIFA in the future."

The FIFA presidential election will take place on February 26 next year.

Candidates must submit an application to FIFA’s ad-hoc electoral committee by 26 October, and provide the written support of at least five nations in world football.

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