English lifeline for Fourie?

South African-born England flank Hendrie Fourie has been offered some options which could enable him to remain in the United Kingdom.

The former Sale Sharks loose forward who was born in South Africa but represented England in eight Test matches thanks to a sports people visa thought that he had 60 days to leave the country following his retirement due to injury, but he has since been offered a lifeline by English authorities.

Fourie has lived in England for the last eight years, and was originally told that he would have to leave the country after the termination of his contract with Sale, but the UK Border Agency have since informed him that there are other options available.

"We have not curtailed Mr Fourie's visa at this time and he is not required to leave the UK," a UK Border Agency spokesman told the Daily Telegraph.

"His employment contract with Sale Rugby Club has been terminated and his employer has rightly informed UKBA of this decision. We are considering what action to take next.

"If an individual's circumstances change and they no longer meet the terms of their specific visa they can apply for a visa of a different type.

"Mr Fourie has been informed of the process and the various options available to him. It is entirely up to him if he chooses to explore any of them further," added the spokesman.

Fourie's 18-month-old son was born in England and he would prefer to remain in the country to take up a teaching career, but falls two years short of the 10-year requirement for residency.

However, it appears that Fourie and his family may be able to remain in England after all if they can find another avenue.