And Republic manager Giovanni Trapattoni, speaking before Fifa's announcement, said he did not expect a replay.

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"Every area received a very thorough assessment, " Tiago Paes, the Stadiums Operations Manager for the Local Organizing Committee, told FIFA.com.

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"We are awaiting confirmation from Fifa that he is eligible to play for Mali, " said Tottenham manager David Pleat.

BBC: SPORT | Football | African | Tottenham appeal over Kanoute

Their conduct appeared to anger United, and manager Sir Alex Ferguson in particular, and the club even reported Real to Fifa over their approaches.

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With Prime Minister David Cameron excused duties because of the birth of his daughter, the Fifa team also held meetings with Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, London mayor Boris Johnson and England manager Fabio Capello.

BBC: Fifa inspectors praise England 2018 World Cup bid

The two-time Fifa World Player of the Year's time at Barcelona effectively came to an end in June when new manager Pep Guardiola announced the playmaker was surplus to requirements.

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