The Republic of Ireland's hopes of drafting in a replacement for Roy Keane appeared to be dashed by FIFA today.
World football's governing body insist they will only be allowed go down this road on medical grounds.
Keane returned to his Cheshire home this morning after being banished from the squad after a heated row with manager Mick McCarthy.
The Republic are anxious to draft in a replacement for the Manchester United midfielder - who has been troubled with a knee injury - with Celtic's Colin Healy the likely choice.
FIFA spokesman Keith Cooper, speaking after a meeting of the World Cup organising committee, said: "If there was no medical reason for Roy Keane to leave, then Ireland cannot replace him."
The Republic have submitted a report to FIFA, which their medical people are now examining.
The results of the findings are expected tomorrow but it is not expected to be good news for McCarthy.
Cooper said: "We have had an incomplete report so far from Ireland. There is no indication Roy Keane went away for medical reasons.
"He was on the list that was submitted and the ruling is that only medical reasons can permit a change.
"If indeed there was no medical reason for him to go then the Ireland squad will be reduced to 22."
Cooper added: "The report is still being checked by our medical people.
"As it's a major issue and medical people are thorough people let them complete their findings and decide accordingly. That will probably be during the course of tomorrow."
PA