The Soccer Express has learnt that world football controlling body, FIFA has responded to Obuasi Goldfields’ request for interpretation on the problems arising out of the 12 points deduction by the Appeals Committee of the Ghana Football Association.

FIFA in a letter dated December 9 advised Goldfields that the matter in question was an internal matter that should be resolved by the local association’s rules and regulations body.

Interestingly even though the FA and Obuasi Goldfields have been privy to this information since December 10, they have kept a tight lid over the issue.

When Soccer Express contacted Goldfields Chief Executive, Andy Sam and the club’s Accra Representative, Owoahene Acheampong yesterday they both denied knowledge of any such correspondence. Enquiries at the FA also met a stonewall, as officials there either denied knowledge or declined to comment.

However a source close to FIFA confirmed late last night that FIFA’s Head of Player Status and Legal Services, Paolo Montener in a letter addressed to FA General Secretary Kofi Nsiah washed its hands off the case citing the fact that the matter was an internal matter which had been duly dealt with by the competent bodies of the Ghana Football Association.

"From the wording contained therein we understand that the matter of the question is about a decision rendered by the competent bodies of the Ghana Football Association against a Ghanaian club.

"In the light of such circumstances, the case in question clearly falls under the jurisdiction of your association…. as a result of which FIFA cannot intervene."

The latest twist to the controversial Valentine Atem saga leaves Goldfields with a lone option, a case brought before the Cape Coast High Court by a said supporter of the club.

The High Court has already placed an injunction on the publication of the league table pending the final determination of the case which has been adjourned to Christmas eve and it is expected that the FA will use the text of FIFA’s response as a strong defence when the case resumes.

Goldfields’ woes have been exacerbated further by another protest filed by Berekum Arsenals against the same Valentine Atem following their second round league match at Berekum, which ended 1-1. Atem featured in that match and Arsenals are convinced that as per the existing rules of the FA the Cameroonian player has still not regularised his stay and employment in Ghana.