Visa snag as Pompey swoop for Bhasera

News, Sports — By admin on August 9, 2009 7:51 pm

Edward Marange

Kaizer Chiefs and Zimbabwean defender Onismor Bhasera is on the verge of sealing a move to English Premiership side Portsmouth after impressing during trials. The United Kingdom Home Office has however scuttled the deal by denying him a work permit.

Portsmouth Chief Executive Peter Storrie admitted even before the application that Bhasera stood little chance of getting the permit because of stringent UK Home Office rules.

Only footballers whose countries are ranked within the world’s top 70 can be considered for any permits. According  to the latest FIFA/Coca Cola World Rankings, Zimbabwe is currently 97.

Storrie however vowed they would appeal on compassionate grounds given Zimbabwe’s current situation.

“The lad is a good player and has been on trial. We will now apply for a work permit. He’s played all the games for Zimbabwe; there are no issues with that at all. But unfortunately Zimbabwe needs to be in the top 70 but are 97th, so it would mean an appeal process,” Storrie said.

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