Intro:

Luis Figo on Wednesday became the latest footballing figure to state his intention to stand for the FIFA presidency - and the former Portugal captain is confident he has the nominations needed to become an official candidate against Sepp Blatter in the upcoming election on 29th May.

Script:

Portuguese legend Luis Figo has become the latest shock candidate for the role of FIFA president.

The former Barcelona, Real Madrid and Inter Milan playmaker announced his candidature in an interview with CNN held on Tuesday.

Figo wants to be taken seriously - and claims he has the nominations needed to be an official candidate against Sepp Blatter.

The 2001 World player of year's campaign began after a statement on Wednesday - timed for release with the television channel.

"I look at the reputation of FIFA right now and I don't like it. Football deserves better," Figo said in the statement.

"Football has given me so much during my life, and I want to give something back to the game."

Current president, Blatter, is the strong favourite win in the 29th of May ballot though, despite bribery and financial scandals which have implicated several of his executive committee colleagues.

"I have seen the image of FIFA deteriorate and as I speak to many people in football - to players, managers and association presidents - so many of those people have told me that something has to be done," Figo added.

The 42-year-old launched his campaign one hour before Netherlands federation president Michael van Praag held a news conference in Amsterdam to launch his bid.

Van Praag also says he has five nominees but, like Figo, has not identified them.