Sterjovski granted work permit to play for Derby

Qantas Socceroo Mile Sterjovski has completed his move to English Premier League side Derby County, after been handed a work permit, following an appeal heard yesterday.

Qantas Socceroo Mile Sterjovski has completed his move to English Premier League side Derby County, after been handed a work permit, following an appeal heard yesterday.

Sterjovski initial permit was not granted, because the British Home Office said he had not met the required number of national team appearances for Australia in the past year.

However the Rams, represented by manager Paul Jewell, managed to present enough documentation that saw the case through successfully.

Jewell, now hopes that his transfer and required clearance from Turkish side Genclerbirligi OFTAS can be sorted by noon Friday, so he can play in the 4th round FA Cup tie against Preston.

Sterjovski last played for Australia during the AFC Asian Cup against Oman and has since been unavailable for the last two matches against Argentina and Nigeria. He has signed an 18-month deal with the Rams.

Derby currently sit bottom of the Premier League and face a tough road ahead to escape the drop back to The Championship next season.