Petkovic denied work permit.

Wynonie Harris · 20-07-2004, 14:00

It's official, Jason Petkovic has been refused a work permit. Apparently, permits are only given to internationals if they are to sign for premiership or league clubs. But they're not given to players who want to sign for non-league clubs, even if they're full-time. What a complete and utter disgrace.

Doug · 20-07-2004, 14:06

I agree, its bias on a grand scale.....What are you going to do about it...

Wynonie Harris · 20-07-2004, 14:13

The club are planning to take it up with the authorities. Surely, this is a matter which Hyndburn's MP could get involved in? Or maybe Jack Straw could pull a few strings?

Doug · 20-07-2004, 14:21

Jack Straw couldn't pull a flag edge fairy on Blackburn road.......But the local should be asked his opinion and than asked to do something about the constent injustice of these issues....

Darby · 20-07-2004, 14:37

Maybe Petkovic could apply for asylum? His name is obviously Balkan, and I'm sure he would be looked upon more favourably!

It's a pity really, different if he didn't have a job or a sponsor. Besides it wouldn't be for ever. And I'm not sure Pope or Straw are interested, as it wouldn't get them anwhere politically.

Wynonie Harris · 20-07-2004, 14:44

I've just emailed Greg Pope asking him to help. He can be reached on [email protected]

Come on, everybody, get emailing.

Doug · 20-07-2004, 14:56

Will help. Good Luck Wynonie Harris.

Wynonie Harris · 20-07-2004, 15:09

Cheers, Doug, don't forget to email him!

Whalley Red · 20-07-2004, 15:14

I can't believe it has taken FOUR WEEKS for the Home Office to inform the Club of this technicality. This should have been done straight away

Bazf · 20-07-2004, 15:48

How do all the Aussies that are in London get in and get jobs, go to any pub around Earls Court and its like little sydney. Can't we just forget about the home office, tell him to come as a student get a job in a bar or talking to animals or what ever Aussies do then make his way to Accy change his name to Smith or something and hey presto we have a goal keeper.

Wynonie Harris · 20-07-2004, 15:52

Just received a reply to my email from Greg Pope. He says: "Thanks for your e-mail. I very much agree with you about this and certainly feel that this rule should be overturned. However, I can't take up the specifics of Jason's case unless he (or the club) ask me to.

I'm very pleased that Stanley have now gone fully professional and let's hope they have a great season."

So, Eric and co, it's over to you!

Tealeaf · 20-07-2004, 16:43

I can't understand the logic behind this decision. In cricket, for instance, sports visa's are issued to those playing at both county and local (i.e. Lancashire League) level. The only condition to the sports visa is that the player (or coach) should have represented his country, which Petrovic has. If it is correct that only footy visas are granted to those playing for premiership & league clubs then a serious re-think is needed at the Home Office Immigration Dept.

Doug · 20-07-2004, 17:18

"However, I can't take up the specifics of Jason's case unless he (or the club) ask me to".

There's your anwser Wynonie Harris, now lets see what the club does. Excellent bit of work...Wynonie Harris.

Mik Dickinson · 20-07-2004, 22:01

I'm very pleased that Stanley have now gone fully professional and let's hope they have a great season."

and i will second that one

simon · 20-07-2004, 22:04

This is a BIG kick in the guts for us Stanley fans

Could somehow see it coming though

Lets hope The club can change things