Monday, 4 November 2002 12:00 AM
South Melbourne midfielder Zeljko Susa has been cleared by FIFA and Soccer Australia to take part in this weeks Round 12 away encounter against Brisbane Strikers.
Since re-joining the club during the pre-season, the skilful midfielder has been unable to participate in any National Soccer League match this season, because of a dispute with his former club Hajduk Split.
The Croatian Football Federation has been requested to issue an international transfer registration certificate (IRTC) on behalf of Soccer Australia and in the interim Soccer Australia will immediately register Zeljko Susa with the Club provisionally until receipt of the original IRTC.
Susa is obviously relieved and can now not only concentrate on keeping fit, but also obtaining a spot in South Melbourne’s squad for the coming weekend.
“I’m excited! I am very keen to play and I am relieved to be able to play again”
It has been a stressful three months for Susa who thought that at the beginning of the season would be lining up for South Melbourne and not be sidelined for such a long period of time.
“I didn’t expect this dilemma to go on for so long. I thought I would receive my clearance prior to the commencement of the season”.
“I would like to thank the Club who has been very supportive and have persisted with this matter. I would also like to extend my thanks to my team-mates and the supporters”.
Last night Susa who played a full match against the Australian Under 20 squad was in good touch and showed he is ready to take the park this weekend.
“I was a good hit out for Susa last night. He showed some deft touches with his cultured left foot”, says Wright.
South Melbourne defeated the Australian Under 20 squad 1 – 0 at Bob Jane Stadium last night with a 52nd minute goal by Ibraim Ibraimi.