FIFA chief brands early-exit suggestion as ‘ridiculous and pure nonsense’

London, Sep 15: FIFA president Sepp Blatter has denied reports that he plans to hand over power to UEFA chief Michel Platini before the end of his four-year tenure as the head of world football's governing body.
Blatter was elected unopposed for a fourth term in June after allegations of bribery and corruption led to the suspension of his opponent, former Asian Football Confederation chief Mohamed Bin Hammam.
"The suggestion that I intend to stop my four-year mandate before its end is simply ridiculous," the Sun quoted Blatter, as saying on Twitter.
"The suggestion of a reported deal between me and Michel Platini for the presidency is pure nonsense," he added.
Platini is widely seen as a possible successor when Blatter's term ends in 2015.