Blatter, who told the AFC Congress last year that he would be trying to seek more World Cup places for Asia, formally confirmed to his Executive Committee last week that he will stand again for President next May.

"Joseph S Blatter has always been supportive of Asia and has placed great importance in the development of Asian football through various FIFA programmes," said Sheikh Salman.

"Our growth in world football can also be credited to the dynamic relationship that the AFC has with FIFA under the guidance of Mr Blatter.

"Mr Blatter has decades worth of experience in governing world football, therefore I have every confidence that he will continue to play an important role in its development."

Sepp Blatter has received vocal backing from the Asian Football Confederation
©Getty Images



Sheikh Salman will be hoping that his support is reciprocated by Blatter in his re-election campaign for AFC President next spring.

Last month, Confederation of African Football general secretary, Hicham El Amrani, confirmed the continent will back Blatter.

As yet, the veteran Swiss has only one official challenger in former FIFA deputy secretary general Jérôme Champagne, but under the rules he needs at least five member states to nominate him.