F.I.F.A. intercedes to resolve soccer wrangle

Press, 29 March 1980, Page 60

F.I.F.A. intercedes to resolve soccer wrangle

NZPA Sydney Australian soccer officials have gone over the heads of their New Zealand counterparts to get permission for three New Zealand imports to play, in Australia this season.

The drawn-out transfer wrangle has gone on for a number of weeks with .the New Zealand Football Association (N.Z.F.A.) wanting , a $lO,OOO bond for each of the three players — Richard Wilson. Duncan Cole and Johan Verweij.. | The bond Was to ensure! that the players were made' available to play for New j Zealand. i

To get the necessary clearance, the secretary of the Australian Soccer Federation, Mr Brian le Fevre, has contacted Mr Rene Court, the assistant secretary of the International Football Federation, F.T.F.A., for a ruling.

Mr le Fevre said yesterday that F.I.F.A. had telexed the N.ZIF.A. explaining that it had to release the players, providing the Australians ensure they are released to play for New Zealand if required. “New Zealand did dig their toes in a bit but it looks as if it has been solved now,” said Mr le Fevre.

He said the Australian) authorities would ensure I

ithat.the clubs .involved released the New Zealanders for any commitments, although they could not force the kiwis to play for their country. He said that the N.Z.F.A. had possibly not realised it could not demand a bond for the players. ' A problem for New Zealand is that soccer players can earn more, money in Australia.

Wilson, a goal-keeper, and Cole, a mid-fielder, have been signed for. Canberra City while Verweij is contracted to the ’ Brisbane Lions.

All going well, Cole and Wilson are' expected to play for Canberra City tomorrow.