Payne still waiting on paperwork

Shamrock Rovers goalkeeper Russell Payne has finally received his work permit but is still waiting for international clearance from previous club SV Elversberg 07 of Germany.

The American joined Rovers earlier this summer only to find his work permit application to the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment blocked by the Professional Footballers Association of Ireland.

The player’s union objected because of Rovers’ problems in dealing with their wage bill. But once that obstacle was cleared the Department processed the permit and Payne is now poised to make his long-awaited debut.

In the meantime Rovers completed some transfer deadline day business by capturing a quartet of 19-year-olds.

Andrew Cousins, younger brother of former Shamrock Rovers striker Tony, has joined the Hoops on loan from Leeds United, while midfielders Barry Thornton and Hussain Yazandi have sealed permanent moves from Leonidas of Holland and Coventry City respectively. Centre-half Paul Malone, who can also play at left-back, has signed from Leinster Senior League side Belgrove.