Bolanos blow for Addicks
30 Aug 2006 - 12:11:36
Charlton Athletic have been forced to abandon their plan to sign Christian Bolanos after the Costa Rica winger was unable to secure a work permit.
The 22-year-old agreed to join the Addicks on a season-long loan from Deportivo Saprissa, but the Home Office ruled he had not played enough of his country's 'A' games to qualify for a permit.
The decision comes despite Bolanos featuring in two of Costa Rica's matches at the World Cup finals and being voted the third best player at last year's FIFA Club World Championship.
Charlton boss Iain Dowie told the club's official website: "I was very surprised by the verdict. We felt we had a very strong case.
"He's an emerging talent and has become a fixture in the Costa Rica side despite his age, so it's very disappointing, not just for us but for the lad as well."
Home Office rules mean Bolanos cannot re-apply for a work permit for another 12 months, but Dowie is already considering reviving the deal next summer.
He added: "We must move on now, it's something we won't let go though because he enjoyed it here and we certainly rate him."
