The Football Association of Ireland chief executive John Delaney has called on FIFA to stick to their own principles and “step up to the plate” by agreeing to replay their controversial World Cup play-off defeat by France.

The FAI have lodged a formal complaint with the world governing body, claiming the integrity of the game has been damaged after French forward Thierry Henry blatantly handled the ball during extra-time in the lead-up to the winning goal scored by William Gallas.

“I really believe the integrity of the game has been questioned,” Delaney said.

“The governing body of world football have to step up to the plate and accede to our call for a replay.”

Delaney also confirmed the FAI have written to their French counterparts.

“We have got to do what we have to do,” he said. “We owe it to the players, who were magnificent. The supporters were incredible.

“It is up to the people who govern the game now. Every time I go to a FIFA congress I hear about fair play and integrity.

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Chelsea have been hit with a ban by FIFA to sign any new players till January 2011 because they ‘induced’ Gael Kakuta to breach his contract at Lens.

French attacking midfielder Kakuta, 18, joined the Blues from Lens two years ago after which the French club lodged a complaint with FIFA.

FIFA’s dispute resolution chamber (DRC) have announced Chelsea will be banned from registering any new players for the next two transfer windows – effectively January 2011 will be the next time they can make a new signing unless they win an appeal.

A FIFA spokesman said: “This decision confirms our aim to ensure contractual stability. It is an important ruling for football in general.”

Chelsea have been ordered to pay £115,000 (130,000euros) training compensation to Lens, and are also liable for the £680,000 (780,000euros) compensation sum ordered against Kakuta himself, who is banned from playing any games for four months.

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The Portugal and Manchester United football star Christiano Ronaldo was named FIFA World Player of 2008 on Monday.

Ronaldo, who is also holder of the prestigious Ballon d’Or for the European Footballer of the Year, beat off competition from 2007 winner Kaka (Brazil), Lionel Messi (Argentina), Fernando Torres (Spain) and Xavi (Spain).

“It’s an overwhelming moment in my career and I’d like to dedicate this award to my family, friends and colleagues,” he said.

“Winning the Champions League for me was the most memorable moment of 2008,” added Ronaldo, who scored in the final but missed a penalty in the penalty shootout against Chelsea.

Ronaldo went out of his way to heap praise on United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, with whom relations became strained during last summer over whether he was going to leave the club for Real Madrid.

“It’s also true that the manager always has an important role to play,” said Ronaldo.

“It was a great season for me and for my club, and the coach was important for me because I learned a lot from him.

“His experience over so many years is of paramount importance – it’s a privilege to have such a great club manager.

“This is the climax of a fantastic era for me. I’m happy and proud about what has been done by my team and what we have won.

“I am lucky to be part of the history of a club like Manchester United.”

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