Middlesbrough manager Steve McClaren is to lead a delegation on Friday to appeal against a decision to refuse Brazil World Cup winner Juninho a British work permit.
The ruling has prevented the Boro from resigning the 29-year-old because, as a non-European player, Juninho must secure a work permit from the British Government's Department of Emplotment before he can ply his trade in the Premiership.
However, his initial application has been rejected because he falls short of the requirement that he should have played in 75 per cent of his country's competitive fixtures over the past two years.
The Middlesbrough delegation will travel to Shefffield to argue the club's case at an appeal hearing. Although Juninho does not pass the appearance test, exceptions can be made for players of sufficiently high quality.
As he has just been a member of a World Cup-winning side, Middlesbrough are optimistic that they will get the midfielder back on board.
Middlesbrough chief executive Keith Lamb told the club's website: "Juninho has won 42 caps for Brazil and has played in the World Cup final. I'm sure that he's of sufficient quality.
"There are only two Brazilian players who would automatically qualify for a work permit under the current regulations, and they are Roberto Carlos and Rivaldo".
Juninho was granted a work permit on appeal two seasons ago when he returned to the club on loan.