Sepp Blatter insists he is not to blame for FIFA's corruption scandal because he could not possibly monitor the actions of everyone working under him, reports Sky Sports. World football's governing body's president made his first public appearance since Tuesday as he addressed attendees at the FIFA Congress opening ceremony in Switzerland on Thursday.

He said: "You will agree with me these are unprecedented and difficult times for FIFA. The events of yesterday have cast a long shadow over football and over this week's congress.

"Actions of individuals bring shame and humiliation on football and demand action and change from us all.

"We cannot allow the reputation of football and FIFA to be dragged through the mud any longer. It has to stop here and now.

"I know many people hold me ultimately responsible for the actions and reputation of the global football community, whether it's a decision for the hosting of a World Cup or a corruption scandal.

"We, or I, cannot monitor everyone all of the time. If people are going to do wrong, they will also try to hide it.

"It must fall to me to be ultimately responsible for the reputation and the wellbeing of our organisation and to find a way forward to fix things.

"I will not allow the actions of a few to destroy the hard work and integrity of the vast majority of those who work so hard for football.

"I must stress that those who are corrupt in football are in the tiny minority like in society - but like in society, they must be caught and held responsible for their actions.

"Football cannot be the exception of the rule. That is our responsibility at FIFA and we will co-operate with the authorities to make sure anyone involved in wrongdoing, from top to bottom, is discovered and punished.

"There can be no place for corruption of any kind. The next few months will not be easy for FIFA. I am sure more bad news will follow but it is necessary to begin to restore trust in our organisation."