Bility joins FIFA presidential race

Liberia Football Association (LFA) president Musa Bility has announced his intention to run for the role of FIFA president, soon to be vacated by the outgoing Sepp Blatter.

Blatter has announced his intention to step down as the figurehead of world football’s governing body after it was thrown into chaos by corruption allegations.

Bility becomes the second person to signal his intent to stand, following the lead of former Brazil international Zico.

“Africa is the largest voting block in FIFA and we must take the lead to bring football together,” he told BBC Sport. “We all agree that football is facing a difficult moment and it is in difficult moments that great leaders emerge.”

The views of Bility, who has headed up the the LFA since 2010, have often been at odds with the majority of his colleagues across Africa, including voting against Blatter in the 2011 election.

The 48-year-old is yet to secure the required support of five football associations but is bullish about his chances.

“People know me to be bold, upright, outspoken and highly opinionated,” he added. “I say it like it is. When it’s not right, I don’t back down and I think that has gained me some respect.

“I have spoken to about half a dozen of the presidents of African football and I have their support – you can see the excitement.

“If I have one reason to believe that Africa is not going to stand by me, I am not going to put up my candidacy.”

The date for the election is due to be set at a FIFA meeting next month.