SAM Allardyce claimed today that Artim Sakiri, the player who cannot get a permit to play in England, is talented enough to go straight into his Premiership side.

"Jermaine Johnson is not as good as Sakiri at the moment," the Wanderers' boss said of the young Jamaican who has become an instant hit since arriving at the Reebok last month. "Yet because Jamaica are in the top 70 in the FIFA world rankings he has no problems with a work permit. It is quite strange."

Allardyce drew the comparison as he confirmed that, despite appearing to turn his back on the £250,000 deal a week ago, he is now prepared to challenge the Home Office ruling to deny Sakiri a work permit on the grounds that Macedonia are outside the top 70 in the FIFA rankings.

He is convinced the 28-year-old winger, who plays for Slovenian side Gorica, would be an outstanding addition to his squad and would enhance the Premiership

"We are speaking to our legal advisors for guidance and looking at the possibility of an appeal," the manager revealed.

"He is an excellent player with excellent pedigree. He has a lot qualities and I would be looking to introduce him straight into the first team.

"He has been captain of his country the last three or four years and played in the Champions League with Halmstad (Sweden). He also speaks perfect English. Macedonia are about 80th in the rankings now but they were in the top 70 in the world not too long ago.

"You have to question some of the rankings as there are some countries in that bracket that I haven't heard of."

Wanderers are considering asking players from Sweden, Turkey and the Czech Republic, who have played against Sakiri in recent internationals to give evidence in support of any appeal to the Home Office.

"We'll put anything our dossier we think might help our case," the manager confirmed.