Blatter was briefing editors on his whirlwind two-day visit to the country. He was questioned at length about reports of infighting in South African soccer over the position. Blatter added that, despite earlier statements from SAFA president Molefi Oliphant, the position of LOC CEO will not be advertised.

"I said it this morning [referring to his earlier meetings with officials] that this position will not be publicly advertised," said Blatter.

The 17 names on the LOC are of prominent South Africans from a wide spectrum and there is no need to advertise for a CEO, he said, adding that he regards the LOC as a transitory committee.

However, he referred particularly to the three strong personalities within South African football who had, in effect, won the bid for the country - bid chairperson Irvin Khoza, Oliphant and Jordaan.

"If Irvin Khoza is chairman [of the LOC] and Molefi Oliphant is president of SAFA, then Danny Jordaan would be perfect as CEO [of the LOC]," he said in response to a direct question on whether he prefers Jordaan in that position.

Oliphant, who attended the briefing with Jordaan, was asked about his statement last month that if Jordaan wants the job, he will have to apply for it.

"We need to respect this view of FIFA," said Oliphant, adding that he will be taking this view to the SAFA executive meeting as well.

Blatter reiterated strongly during the briefing that the 2010 World Cup is a FIFA event. FIFA has, however, entrusted SAFA with the staging of the event.

It is important that there is a single "architect" for running the World Cup, but with many hands assisting.

Asked if this means that he wants the architect to be Jordaan, Blatter replied: "No, FIFA is the architect."

Responding further to queries on whether he has been able to persuade Oliphant to stay on as SAFA president later this year, Blatter said: "That is in the pipeline."

The FIFA president underlined the need for the LOC to get under way with local arrangements and preparations for 2010 as soon as possible. FIFA will be establishing its own special committee for 2010, but only after the 2006 World Cup in Germany.

FIFA will also be opening a permanent office in South Africa at that point.

SAFA this week signed a contract with Germany for 150 South Africans to be trained up for 2006, and this expertise will be brought home for 2010.