Blatter says he will appeal 8-year ban

Sepp Blatter says he will appeal against his eight-year ban from football to Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Blatter also insisted that he still views himself as FIFA president despite the ban.

Speaking at a news conference on Monday, Blatter said: "I fight for me and I will fight for FIFA. Suspended for eight years for what?"

Blatter and UEFA President Michel Platini received the same ban for conflict of interest and disloyalty to FIFA in a $2 million payment deal in 2011 based on an oral contract.

Blatter: "I'm sorry as president of FIFA I'm this punching ball."

Blatter was already planning to stand aside on February 26 when a new president is due to be elected.