South African chief executive Danny Jordaan urges FA to build bridges with Fifa

Joseph S.Blatter, Presedent of FIFA

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South African FA chief executive Danny Jordaan has told the Football Association that they must build bridges with Fifa after recent disputes saw trust break down between the two parties.

The FA expressed its concerns over the bidding process after England lost out to Russia for the 2018 World Cup and accused executive members of the world’s football governing body of corruption after being put out in the first round.

Last week also saw another set-back for the FA after they were unsuccessful in attempting to stall the vote for Fifa president due to Mohammad Bin Hammam witdrawing, leaving Sepp Blatter as the only candidate for the position.

Jordaan admitted that English people are percieved as being arrogant but also said that the FA have a major part to play if the governing body is to implement their ideas for change which would see the body being more ‘transparent’ and their members more accountable.

“They have to build bridges because in this period, it’s also a transition period for Fifa,” The South African executive told Sky Sports News.

“Everyone was talking about the need for changes inside Fifa so they must contribute.

“Everyone who wants to see a different direction for global football must be a participant otherwise you can’t help shape.

“So, yes, I think they should roll up their sleeves and participate.”

After the presidential election, the FA recieved strong criticism from some Fifa members for their actions leading up to the vote, however Jordaan believes they were entitled to their opinion.

“Democracy includes the right to vote but also the right not to vote so if any country decides to abstain, that’s part of their democratic right.

“And it’s in the Fifa constitution so you cannot take offence if a member exercises its democratic right.

“Whether that was the best move for England, that’s a separate matter.”