The heads of the Thai and Bahraini football associations have emerged as contenders to lead the Asian governing body as the region seeks to replace scandal-hit ex-chief Mohamed bin Hammam.
The Asean Football Federation released a statement on Tuesday throwing its support behind Thai football boss Worawi Makudi to take over the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).
Asean stands for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
Bahrain’s Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim al-Khalifa has also confirmed his intention to stand, World Football Insider reported on its website.
The 46-member AFC will elect a new leader in May, hoping to move past nearly two years of turmoil over allegations of wrongdoing including bribery by bin Hammam. The Qatari denies the allegations.
It is currently headed by caretaker leader Zhang Jilong of China, who is considered the front-runner to win the post.
Worawi did not answer calls seeking comment. An AFC spokesman said the organisation could not publicly confirm candidates until after the March 3 nomination deadline.