Blackburn Rovers centre-back Ryan Nelsen has been granted a work permit and is poised to sign a new three-year deal with the club.
An appeal had been launched as the New Zealand international had an automatic permit refused because of his country's low world ranking.
Nelsen, 27, produced some superb performances last season after arriving from DC United in January.
Manager Mark Hughes said: "I am delighted it has been resolved."
He added: "It is excellent news. Ryan was magnificent for us after arriving in January, establishing himself as a major figure in our plans."
"Prior to the work permit hearing, we had already talked to him in detail about a new three-year contract and now we can set about the job of finalising all of that."
Hughes has also been said to be chasing the signature of Benni McCarthy of Porto after his agent announced that the striker wanted to come to Blackburn.
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Match of the Day - Post-match interviews