BUNGLING FA chiefs have been left red faced following a mix-up over Dorchester Town target, Ross Marchant, writes Paul Baker.

The former Sunderland striker was refused permission to play for the Magpies against Sittingbourne last week because officials claimed needed international clearance following spell playing in Spain.

But the 20-year-old, who has been training with home town team Bournemouth since being released by the Black Cats, denied having ever been to Spain, let alone played football there.

Upon checking their facts, the FA have now admitted they mistakenly entered Spain on his paperwork, when it should have said Scotland.

Dorchester secretary Dave Martin explained: "Ross Marchant had definitely been cleared abroad but the FA had entered Spain on his paperwork, instead of Scotland.

"Apparently he played one trial match for Livingston, therefore he cannot register as a non contract player until the transfer window in January 2003.

"However, because he was on a contract with Sunderland last season, there is an exemption if he were to be offered a contract by a club."

Magpies boss Mark Morris is expected to hold further talks

with Marchant tonight with a view to him joining the club on a contract.