Roy Keane arrived back in Manchester today after being banished from the Republic of Ireland World Cup squad by manager Mick McCarthy.
The Manchester United skipper was whisked away through a side entrance away from the waiting media in the main terminal at the airport.
Keane had earlier touched down in Heathrow before catching a transfer flight to Manchester.
Wearing a white sports T-shirt, blue jeans and white trainers and clutching a black holdall, Keane looked refreshed despite the long journey from the Far East.
The 30-year-old smiled at waiting camera crews and photographers, but stepped immediately into a waiting car and onwards to his connection.
FAI treasurer John Delaney confirmed that both the association and Manchester United had offered to organise Keane's travel arrangements.
But he said Keane had turned down the FAI'S offer.
Before boarding the flight to Tokyo, Keane appeared to be in upbeat mood. "I feel great and have a clear conscience," he said.
"I am happy to be going home to see my family - it's good to be going home.
"I have no regrets. There are more important things to worry about."
PA