TWO former members of the Iraq squad have been granted permanent visas to remain in Australia after abandoning the national team.
Ali Abbas, Ali Mansoor and Ali Khadir - all of whom have been banned for life by the Iraqi Football Federation for deserting the team - disappeared along with assistant coach Saadi Toma and a fifth man connected with the set-up after the team lost against the Olyroos at Bluetongue Stadium in Gosford.
The five then made visa applications to stay in Australia - two of which have now been granted. Mansoor has since returned to Iraq, while the two others will be allowed to stay until a decision is made on their applications.
A spokesman for the Department of Immigration told The Australian newspaper: "Two of the five members of the squad have had their visa applications approved and the other two are still pending."
The five then made visa applications to stay in Australia - two of which have now been granted. Mansoor has since returned to Iraq, while the two others will be allowed to stay until a decision is made on their applications.
A spokesman for the Department of Immigration told The Australian newspaper: "Two of the five members of the squad have had their visa applications approved and the other two are still pending."
Copyright (c) Press Association
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