Recent signings Valeri Bojinov and Vedran Corluka have this afternoon been granted work permits in order to be registered for the Club.

Manager Sven-Goran Eriksson, together with other club representatives, attended the successful hearing earlier today so that the Bulgarian striker and Croatian defender can now apply for international clearance.

Sven said: “We are talking about two extremely good footballers of enormous quality, and I’m delighted that the permits have been granted.”

Also, Brazilian midfielder Elano already has his work permit and is hopeful of receiving international clearance in time to be available for the season-opener at Upton Park.