By Mohamed Fajah Barrie BBC Sport, Freetown

George Weah wants to be president of the Liberia Football Association

Former World Player of the Year George Weah has said that he will join the race to become the next president of the Liberian Football Association (LFA).

Weah made the announcement during an exclusive interview with BBC Sport in Freetown on Friday.

"I'm coming back to Liberia to vie for the FA presidency to help improve the game in the country," Weah said.

"The current poor status of the game in my country has forced me to make this decision, and I'm determined to do my best."

The LFA is currently being run Africa's first female football president Izetta Wesley, who is serving as interim leader following the resignation of her predecessor, Edwin Snow.

However at present no date has been set for the next Liberia FA elections.

George Weah said that he helped to persuade Edwin Snow to step down from the post.

"I spoke to Edwin Snow asking him to step down as it would be the best thing for Liberian football and he listened to my advice," he said.

"I think I've got what it takes to improve the game in my country."

In recent times the former Liberian captain has been heavily involved in his country's football it was his financial support that ensured the Lone Stars honoured their international fixtures throughout the civil war.

This generosity and his passion for football in Liberia will serve as a strong bargaining chip when he tries secure the votes during an election.