Zambia's Mbesuma gets work permit

Mbesuma's goals have moved Zambia up the world rankings

Collins Mbesuma finally completed his move to Portsmouth on Thursday when he was granted a work permit to play in the English Premiership.

The Zambian striker joins from South African champions Kaizer Chiefs where he scored 35 goals last season.

"His goal scoring rate is phenomenal and he deserves his chance in the best league in the world," said Portsmouth chairman Milan Mandaric.

"He has to be allowed time to settle into his new surroundings."

Mandaric added: "I am delighted football justice has prevailed and we are able to seal an exciting addition to our strike-force."

Chief executive Peter Storrie believes the 21-year-old can become the long-term successor to Nigerian ace Yakubu Ayegbeni who was sold to fellow-Premiership side Middlesbrough.

Storrie, who attended the Mbesuma appeal hearing, said: "As in all transfers there is an element of risk and Collins will need a period of adjustment here but he has exceptional talent.

"The right decision has been made. Yakubu was a risk when he first came here but in reality it did not turn out that way."

Mbesuma was turned down for an automatic work-permit to play in England two weeks ago after agreeing a three-year deal with Portsmouth.

The sticking point was that Zambia, although ranked 62nd in Fifa's latest lists, have not figured regularly in the top 70 over the last two years.

Ironically, Mbesuma's goals have since propelled them up the world rankings table.