Former Republic of Ireland captain Roy Keane confirmed tonight that he will play no part in the World Cup finals.
In a statement released to RTE, Keane said he did not consider that the best interests of Irish football would be served by his return.
He said: "In the interests of all genuine supporters of Irish football I believe that the time has now arrived when I should bring to a conclusion the continuing speculation with regard to my participation in the World Cup and for the players to concentrate fully on their preparations for the competition free from all further distraction.
"Whilst I appreciate all the support which I have received and all the efforts which have been made by a number of people on behalf of all the parties involved in this unfortunate matter, I do not consider that the best interests of Irish football will be served by my returning to the World Cup.
"The damage has been done.
"I wish the team and the management all the best and they will have my full support throughout the competition.
"I urge all the people of Ireland to give their entire support to the team.
"I do not feel that any useful purpose will be served by my making any further comment.
Speculation mounted earlier that Keane was preparing to fly to Japan to rejoin the Republic of Ireland squad.
The reports suggested that travel arrangements were made for the player to leave for Izumo but Keane's agent, Michael Kennedy, suggested the reports were premature and said his client should be allowed time to consider his decision.
Earlier, Mick McCarthy said he would consider taking Keane back if the player made an apology, and if the Republic of Ireland squad members agreed.
The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) are due to make a statement shortly.
Several hundred people gathered in protest outside the FAI headquarters in Merrion Square this evening.
Former Republic of Ireland international Ray Houghton admitted the loss of Keane was immense.
"The bad news is we have now lost our inspirational captain," Houghton told Sky Sports News.
"It's sad for Roy as he's going to be remembered as the man who was sent home from the the World Cup.
"He was adamant he was in the right and it had to be Mick McCarthy and the players who had to apologise to him.
"I think Mick would have accepted an apology. If there was one and it was sincere I think Mick would have taken him back because he knows how important he is to the Irish squad."
Houghton said the fans would suffer most because of Keane's decision.