Everton see Tal refused work permit

Everton have hit work permit problems with their attempt to sign Israeli international Idan Tal.

The Merseyside club invited Tal to train with them in pre season and agreed a transfer fee at the start of August with Maccabi Petah Tikva for just under a £1 million.

Now the 24 year old has been refused permission to play in the Premiership by the Department of Employment.

A non-EU player must have played in 75% of recent internationals during the past two years for his country to qualify for a work permit.

Tal is close to this requirement and Everton are set to appeal against the decision.