FA backs Michel Platini to succeed Sepp Blatter as FIFA president

The Football Association offered its support for Michel Platini during his bid to become the next president of FIFA.

FA chairman Gregory Dyke offered his endorsement for Platini's campaign, with a belief the Frenchman will successfully guide FIFA away from the corruption scandal that rocked the world football governing body in May.

"We have a good relationship with him and hope he can gain the necessary global backing to lead a new FIFA during the most difficult period in its history," Dyke said shortly after Platini announced his intentions to succeed Sepp Blatter.

"We understand there will be a number of candidates, which should result in a strong and healthy debate. However, we should not underestimate how challenging it will be for anyone to lead an organisation that has been so tainted. The whole structure of FIFA must be reviewed and fundamentally changed."

Dyke went on to express his belief in Platini's capability of righting the ship with drastic reforms, adding his support comes despite not seeing the UEFA president's platform.

Meanwhile, Rob Harris of The Associated Press points out that Dyke and the FA's support for Platini may be influenced by the favourable decisions that have gone England's way since he took over the reigns at the European governing body.