The case of a Romanian footballer who signed for Inverness Caledonian Thistle but had his application for a work permit refused by the Home Office is to be raised with the Home Secretary by a Highland MSP.

Former Labour MP David Stewart, now a Highlands and Islands regional MSP, is supporting the appeal of Romanian internationalist Marius Niculae.

Mr Stewart, a keen Caley Thistle supporter and club trustee, said: "I have looked at the Home Office conditions which have to be met for the granting of a work permit for a footballer in Marius's circumstances.

"These are, however, only guidelines for an initial application and I am aware there have been many precedents of even internationally unknown non-EU players with no links to the UK being granted work permits.

"The application will go to appeal and the important thing now is to gather support for the legal team to use at the hearing."