The Asian Football Confederation has endorsed Gianni Infantino for another term as Fifa’s president in a turnaround in its stance from two months ago when it criticised the head of football’s world governing body for a breach of trust.

The AFC president, Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim al-Khalifa, speaking at the body’s extraordinary congress in Tokyo on Friday, embraced Infantino with a large hug in front of the membership as he delivered his endorsement.

“We affirm our full commitment to supporting you and your leadership as you seek a new mandate as the Fifa president.” Sheikh Salman said. “You’ve visited a lot of countries in Asia. I’ve spoken to a lot of members within this continent. I know your feeling and I think your commitment is clear as well.”

The AFC has 47 member associations. Even if all the members do not follow the direction of Sheikh Salman, those votes could be a key to guaranteeing another mandate for Infantino. The Fifa election is in March and nominations close on 18 November.…