Platini had been seen as a potential contender to run in next year's Presidential election.

But, at a meeting of the 54 European football associations in Monte Carlo today, he said he wanted to remain as head of UEFA.

Under Platini's leadership, UEFA has been heavily critical of Blatter and his intention of running for a fifth term.

Platini has made no secret of his desire for FIFA to be headed by a new face following a series of damaging allegations, including the awarding of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups to Russia and Qatar respectively.

Both bids are the subject of an ongoing investigation into corruption. 

Corruption allegations surrounding Qatar's successful bid to stage the 2022 World Cup have piled pressure on Sepp Blatter's Presidency of FIFA ©Getty Images



He has previously called for a "breath of fresh air" at the top of FIFA, adding: "I do not support him.

"I am not in favour of him having a new term."

But with UEFA the only continental association publicly against Blatter's re-election, another four years in the post looks increasingly likely for the Swiss, first elected in 1998.

The only declared candidate in the Presidential race is former FIFA administrator Jérôme Champagne.

Candidates must declare their intention to stand by January, with elections set to take place at the FIFA Congress in Zurich on May 29.

Platini, who has headed UEFA since 2007, has not said if he will stand for the FIFA Presidency in 2019.

FIFA Executive Committee member Michel D'Hooghe said: "It was a very positive message - he said he would like to continue as UEFA President and I am pleased that it means that this time there will be no battle between FIFA and UEFA."

It is possible UEFA may put forward another candidate to stand against Blatter, with Dutch Football Association head Michael van Praag and German FA President Wolfgang Niersbach both previously mooted as possible candidates.

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