Transfer News: Bolton Wanderers transfer hinges on FIFA rankings

As has been widely reported over the past few days, FA ruling could prevent Bolton Wanderers from signing Australian international Mark Milligan.

FA rule dictates that in order to gain a work permit, non-European players must play for a country ranked in the top 50 in the preceeding two years.

Australia have hovered at the 53rd spot, meaning the next FIFA rankings will determine whether Milligan is eligible for a work permit or not. Club secretary Simon Marland spoke to Australian site The World Game, stating:

"If Mark doesn't automatically qualify to get a work permit for any club in England, then the chances are he won't get one," However (with the FIFA rankings due out) there is a possibility (he might).

The regulations have changed from 18 months ago when things were more relaxed (a ranking of 75 or under was permissible)." It's not just Bolton Wanderers, I am sure a lot of other clubs have looked at him simply because he's a regular for Australia and captained them (twice) at the Confederations Cup."

If Jay Spearing doesn't sign a new deal and Milligan fails to gain a work permit, Wanderers will have to cast their eye on a new defensive midfielder.