Bresciano free to play against Costa Rica

Socceroos midfielder Mark Bresciano has been cleared to play Costa Rica on Tuesday despite the threat of a fine and suspension from world governing body FIFA.

Socceroos midfielder Mark Bresciano has been cleared to play Costa Rica at Allianz Stadium on Tuesday despite the imposition of a fine and suspension from world governing body FIFA.

Bresciano has been fined $1.9m and suspended for four months by FIFA over irregularities in his transfer from the United Arab Emirates to Qatar last year.

The world football governing body have ruled that Bresciano-s move from Al-Nasr to Al Gharafa was illegal and have also subsequently banned his current club from making any transfers for twelve months.

Al Gharafa have appealed against the verdict to the Court of Arbitration in Sport and hope to have their case heard early next year.

Bresciano joined Al Gharafa last year from Al Nasr, having previously played the majority of his club football in Italy. The 33-year-old had represented Empoli, Parma, Palermo and Lazio in the Serie A and B.

The Socceroo veteran has been allowed to play in Australia-s upcoming international against Costa Rica and Football Federation Australia are currently assisting Bresciano with the implications of the ruling.

"FFA is currently studying the judgement and considering the options," said an FFA spokesperson.

"We will do all we can to assist Marco Bresciano and his representatives in having this issue resolved.

"The advice from FIFA is that the suspension doesn't apply to Tuesday night's match against Costa Rica.

"Marco is available for selection and will continue his preparations with the squad."