Sepp Blatter is poised to be suspended as FIFA president within days over a £1.3 million payment to Michel Platini, according to his long-time adviser Klaus Stöhlker.

Stöhlker, a Zurich-based PR expert who has represented Blatter, claimed the 79-year-old’s suspension had been formally sought following an inquiry into criminal proceeding launched against him last month.

According to Stöhlker and other sources, a provisional 90-day ban was requested by the prosecutorial arm of Fifa’s ethics committee – its investigatory chamber – something which could effectively end Blatter’s 17-year reign.

A final decision lies with the adjudicatory chamber, headed by its head judge, Hans Joachim-Eckert.

The ethics committee last night refused to confirm or deny Blatter’s suspension had been requested, something the Telegraph revealed last month was poised to happen.

It was unclear last night whether Platini was also in imminent danger of suspension for accepting the money from Blatter, something that is also being investigated by the Attorney General of Switzerland, Michael Lauber.

“There is no guilt impugned,” Stöhlker said. “They put the ball to Mr Lauber in Switzerland. He is now in position for further investigation.

“At least president Blatter has not flown away from his throne but is still in power. It’s a very difficult situation. It’s not good for global football.

“The first floor [investigatory chamber] has taken the decision today – they have taken the decision.

“That’s why the second needs to take the decision [talking about the two investigatory chambers]. He is quiet, he is reluctant, he is fully prepared to take his responsibilities.

“He is the only one who can lead FIFA.”

Any provisional suspension can be imposed for a maximum of 135 days. In Blatter’s case, any ban would expire days before the February 26 presidential election at which he has already vowed to step down. (Daily Telegraph)

•Photo shows embattled FIFA President Sepp Blatter.

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