"I am very sorry to announce that our application to get a work permit for Qu Bo was rejected by the Home Office," the Spurs'press secretary John Fennelly said.

Fennelly said the application failure was because Qu has not played the required 75% of "A" international matches for China over the past two years. "Most of the matches he player were for the youth side," he said.

"We really hope that Qu can come to the club because he is a very promising player," Fennelly said. "He is only 21 and has a very bright future."

The official said that it was too early to say whether the club will launched an appeal.

But the club's official website said that Spurs requested an early Appeal, conscious of the impending transfer window deadline. Commented Director of Football, David Pleat said: "After taking all matters into consideration, the tribunal decided that they could not grant a permit at this stage in Qu Bo's career. We have had a fair hearing and have to respect their view.

"However, it is very disappointing for both the player and the club. We shall continue to monitor his progress."

Qu had a two-week trial at White Hart Lane early this month and made an immediate impact in the club's two pre-season friendlies with Watford and Crystal Palace. His versatility and pace impressed boss Glenn Hoddle, who finally signed him on a one-year loan with 150,000 pounds subject to a work permit.

(People's Daily August 29, 2002)