Blatter says Irish deserve 'moral compensation'

FIFA president Sepp Blatter is considering a special award for Ireland after it lost out on a World Cup spot to France when a handball from Thierry Henry led to a decisive goal.

He ruled out financial compensation after it was announced that World Cup teams will receive at least $9 million for taking part in the competition.

Blatter said Thursday he would back Ireland receiving "moral compensation" for its elimination following the handball.

He said paying Ireland would lead to more teams seeking compensation.