The FA has today declared it will support Michael van Praag in his candidacy for the UEFA Presidency at next week’s UEFA Congress in Athens.
David Gill, FA Vice-Chairman and UEFA Executive Committee member, said: "The FA Board has considered the candidates for the UEFA Presidency.
"While we note Angel Maria Villar Llona’s withdrawal overnight and fully respect Aleksander Ceferin’s credentials, we have agreed to support Michael van Praag.
"He is someone we have come to know very well and worked closely with in recent years, particularly because of our shared commitment to securing FIFA reform.
"As UEFA President, Mr Van Praag would be able to provide the strong and credible leadership European football requires at a crucial moment for the global game.
"He has an exemplary reputation, forged during his long association with Ajax and the Royal Netherlands Football Association.
"He would represent the European member associations with dignity and integrity while building on the good work UEFA has been carrying out in key areas such as promoting football for all, the growth of the women’s game and the fight against discrimination.
"Having worked alongside him on the UEFA Executive Committee, Mr Van Praag is also the right choice to bring all aspects of the European game closer together, particularly with his knowledge of club football, and will be able to foster close ties with other confederations.
"In all, he has a proven track record across domestic and international matters that can only help UEFA go forward."
The election will take place during the 12th Extraordinary UEFA Congress on Wednesday 14 September in Athens, Greece.
