FC UNITED'S persistence in trying to win midfielder Papis Djeeyte the right to play football has paid off.

The Senegalese player was told by the Home Office that he could not turn out for the Rebels as his work permit would only allow him to turn out at League Two level or higher.

That had manager Karl Marginson lobbying his MP, and sparked an online petition among supporters angry that Djeeyte, who is married to an English woman, was being denied the chance to play semi-professional football.

But club secretary Lindsey Robertson has now discovered that Djeeyte was not barred.

General manager Andy Walsh said: "We did some further investigation and what we were originally told was only true if you have a work permit to work in the sports or entertainment industries.

"If you have a full work permit, which Papis has, and work in another occupation then there is nothing to stop you playing at non-league level."

Djeeyte's clearance has meant he has played as a sub in the last two games, a home win over Ilkeston and the FA Trophy victory at Worksop Town.

NORTHWICH Victoria have handed ex-Lewes boss Steve King the job of saving them from relegation.

He replaces Dino Maamria, who was sacked last month and the shock departure of caretaker-chief Mike Marshin the wake oflast weekend's home defeat by Eastbourne.