Ireland ask for World Cup to be expanded

Fifa president Sepp Blatter has confirmed Republic of Ireland have requested the World Cup be expanded to facilitate their inclusion.

Ireland missed out on a place in South Africa next summer following Thierry Henry's now infamous handball in their play-off qualifier.

Henry controlled the ball with his hand before crossing for William Gallas to score and help France secure a 2-1 aggregate success in Paris.

With a replay out of the question Blatter has revealed that Ireland have yet to give up hope of featuring in the prestigious tournament.

However, Blatter says that Costa Rica would also then have to be included as they felt they were undone by an offside goal against Uruguay.

"We received a delegation from Ireland and they were naturally absolutely unhappy at what has happened," explained Blatter. "They know the match cannot be replayed and the decision of the referee is final.

"Naturally they have not asked for any sanctions to be given to any player or the referee, but they have asked, very humbly 'can't we be team No.33 at the World Cup? They have asked for that, really.

"I will bring it to the attention of the executive committee but if we do that, we will also have to bring in Costa Rica."

Extra officials
Meanwhile, Blatter has revealed additional assistant referees could be used to officiate at next summer's finals.

The Fifa president is keen to cut down on cheating after Martin Hansson failed to spot Henry's blatant handball against Ireland.

Keen to avoid further controversy in South Africa Blatter, for the first time, says additional referees behind each goal could be used next summer.

The system, which is currently the subject of an experiment in the Europa League, could now be implemented by Fifa if deemed a success.

Blatter confirmed the issue is on Wednesday's agenda and if approved would be discussed by the law-making International Board next March in time to be introduced at the World Cup.

"It's possible we will make additional officials for the World Cup but we have to see if it is feasible or realistic," he said.

"Something has to be done in terms of match control. How can we avoid the cheating handball situation we had in that match?

"How can it happen that all over the world, through TV cameras, we have seen through a cheating handball that a pass was given for a goal?

"Everyone is asking what is and what isn't fair play. The highest crime in football is touching the ball with the hands."