ManU Dir David Gill is set to be elected as FIFA VP this week, with FA Chair Greg Dyke "claiming Gill can be part of an 'awkward squad,' trying to expose any wrongdoing within the controversy-hit organisation," according to the AP. Gill was "initially reluctant to stand for the role," representing UEFA on FIFA’s exec committee, but he was "convinced to stand by the FA," as well as UEFA President Michel Platini. With the 79-year-old Sepp Blatter tipped to be re-elected for a fifth, four-year term in May, the FA nominated Gill "so he could ask tough questions" of FIFA’s management from within the organization. Dyke said, "He will not be afraid of asking appropriate questions. In fact perhaps FIFA needs to have someone from the awkward squad asking tough questions. He has a strong background in finance so if there are financial questions he will know what to ask and what to look for" (AP, 3/22). In London, Mike Collett reported Dyke "re-affirmed" his own opposition to Blatter remaining in office and said that if the Swiss should win the presidential vote as expected in May, Gill would be "an alternative voice to the 'acolytes' on FIFA's executive committee." Dyke: "There is a feeling that there have been too many acolytes and not enough people asking difficult questions and ensuring that decisions are taken in a transparent, ethical and business-like manner." Gill "has made no secret of his distaste for Blatter," who will be standing for a fifth term in office. Gill said, "I aim to use my skills in football around the table and work with my UEFA colleagues to have a greater say and influence in how it operates. In terms of votes it's quite an important block" (REUTERS, 3/22).
