Keeper sweats on permit

The Australian international goalkeeper has formally agreed to join Accrington Stanley in time for the start of the Conference season in just over a month's time.

As exclusively revealed in last night's Lancashire Evening Telegraph, the Reds have now applied for a necessary permit to allow the 31-year-old former Perth Glory star to work in this country.

And Petkovic, who had a previous attempt at gaining a work permit refused by Government officials following a trial with Southampton, is hoping for better luck second time around.

He said: "The work permit is the big obstacle at the moment. I've tried in the past and it stopped me joining Southampton four or five years ago.

"I understand they (Department of Employment officials) can be pretty stringent when it comes to handing out permits, but hopefully things will go more smoothly this time and I can make the move.

"It has long been an ambition of mine to play in England and I am ready to go and try to make it a success.

"The opportunity is there and the timing is right because I'm out of contract. I'd also like to think that having played for my country - and considering the experience I have - that would also come into consideration when the authorities consider my application."

Petkovic, who has earned 16 caps for his country, admitted his knowledge of Stanley was limited after being informed of their interest by a mutual friend in Australia.

But since speaking to Reds boss John Coleman, Petkovic has been busy swotting up on his potential new employers.

He revealed: "A friend of a friend put me in contact with Stanley and I have to confess I know very little about them.

"I've been handed some newspaper cuttings and articles and also looked at the overall set-up on the Internet.

"Also, after speaking to the people there , Accrington seems a forward thinking club so hopefully, things can work out."

See Friday's Evening Telegraph for Accrington Stanley 2004-05 fixtures.