The proposed merger between TNS and Oswestry has been thrown into lingo over doubts that the new club could  not represent Wales in Europe.

The merger, spearheaded by TNS Managing Director Mike Harris, which has been approved by both the FAW and Oswestry Town shareholders 'would not go through' if the new club were forbidden from entering European competition. The new club are looking to relocate to a new purpose built 'super stadium' in Oswestry by 2005. However, with the new ground being located in England, Harris has asked UEFA and the FAW for assurances that his club could still represent Wales, but as of yet has not received any news either way.

Oswestry Town had been expected to resign from the Welsh Premier, and do not feature in the new seasons fixture list which was published earlier in the week. If the merger does not go through, League secretary John Deakin has insisted that Oswestry could easily be slotted into the fixture list. However, it would not be so easy for the Shropshire club, who have released the majority of their playing squad, including player/manager Dave Norman who has recently joined Caernarfon Town.

A furious Mike Harris (left) has accused the FAW of 'dithering'. "They have been non-committal on whether they would nominate us for European place if the merged team played in a ground across the English border." Harris told the Western Mail. "The letter I had from them regarding the issue was about as much use as
a chocolate fireguard - it was full of 'ifs', 'perhaps' and 'maybes'

Harris continued by criticising the FAW's delay over contacting UEFA, after placing their enquiry 'weeks ago'. League Secretary John Deakin was quick to defend the FAW's lack of action claiming "As far as I am concerned, we have dealt with the matter as swiftly as possible. I have sought that clarification from UEFA and I'm waiting. I accept the new season is fast approaching and the issue needs to be resolved by the end of this month

Will the merger go ahead? Should Harris' TNS be allowed to represent Wales despite being based in England? Should the new club retain Oswestry Town's membership of the FAW? Let us know your views on the messageboard.

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