All clear for Appiah to play

Italian side Bologna have acquired the International Transfer Certificate for Ghana captain Stephen Appiah, paving the way for him to play for them.

This means he will be available for Bologna on Sunday when they play his former club Udinese.

Appiah singed for the Serie A campaigners last month on a free transfer but his former Turkish club Fenerbahce were not keen to approve his ITC to allow him to join Bologna.

The Turkish Football Federation released the documents on Wednesday despite their reluctance over the Ghana captain's return to the Italian top-flight.

"Naturally I am deligthed that this has been sorted out for me to get back to action," Appiah told Ghanasoccernet exclusively.

"Now I can focus on playing rather than worry about when my papers were going to be complete.

"This is a massive boost for me as I will get the necessary playing time and also to help Bologna in the league.

"This will also help me as the African Cup of Nations is approaching."

Appiah quit Fenerbahce two years ago over a botched knee operation which led to a contractual dispute.

Appiah has impressed at training and coach Franco Colomba could hand the midfielder a starting role.

He secured his work permit from the Italian immigration authorities after last month's final 2010 World Cup qualifier against Mali at home.

Appiah already played for Serie A sides Udinese, Parma, Brescia and Juventus before spending three seasons at Fenerbahce.