FIFA to discuss Ireland appeal this Wednesday ahead of World Cup draw

Sepp Blatter has revealed that Ireland have appealed to world governing body FIFA to be allowed to compete as a 33rd team in next year's World Cup finals.

Ireland were eliminated from the competition earlier this month by France in a play-off after Thierry Henry handled the ball in the build-up to William Gallas's equaliser that gave France a 1-1 draw on the night and a 2-1 aggregate win.

Speaking at the Soccerex business conference, the FIFA president said on Monday: "We received a delegation from Ireland at FIFA and they were naturally absolutely unhappy at what has happened. 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. I cannot confirm what will happen, but I will report it to the executive committee."

Blatter added that FIFA's Executive Committee would consider Ireland's appeal when they held their extra-ordinary meeting in Cape Town on Wednesday.

The draw for next summer's 32-team World Cup finals takes place on Friday, also in Cape Town.

Spain are currently favourites to win the 2010 World Cup, best priced 9/2 with bet365 at time of writing.

Brazil are available at 5/1 with Paddy Power with England, a general 6/1, available at 13/2 with Boylesports.