North Korea have been told by FIFA that Kim Myong-Won will only be able to play as a goalkeeper in the World Cup and not in his usual role as a striker.
Coach Kim-Jong Hun decided to name only two regular goalkeepers in his squad with Kim, who plays for Amrokgang, as the back-up. It was seen as an attempt to boost the nation's attacking options as they prepare to face Brazil, Ivory Coast and Portugal in Group G.
However the move has backfired spectacularly after FIFA confirmed that Kim will only be allowed to play as a goalkeeper, not as an outfield player. Unless there is an injury, no changes will be permitted to their final squad.
In a statement, world football's governing body said: "The squad lists that the teams had provided to FIFA by June 1, 2010 are final and can no longer be changed. On the final lists must be no more than 23 players, three of whom shall be goalkeepers."
The statement added: "Kim Myong-Won will not be allowed to play as an outfield player if he has been put on the list as a goalkeeper."
Source: PA
