WORCESTER Wolves are hoping to receive a significant boost for tomorrow night's British Basketball League (BBL) clash at Sheffield Sharks (7.30pm tip-off) with new signing Solomon Sheard being cleared to play.

The University of Worcester-based side have been sweating on work permit clearance for the 6ft 8ins American forward, but are now confident they have cut through the red tape in time for tomorrow's match.

Director of basketball Mick Donovan said: "We submitted the Further Leave to Remain (FLR) application to the Home Office in time and we are confident Solomon will be allowed to play."

Wolves having Sheard available takes on more significance due to shooting guard Andy Harper (ankle) being out and Sean Nelson returning to America.

Head coach Josh Cooprider said: "Getting the all-clear to play Solomon will give us a massive lift. He will certainly bring much-needed support to our big guys."

However, Wolves' plans have been hampered by Matt Collins suffering a recurrence of a shoulder injury, which has left him seriously doubtful to play tomorrow.

Donovan added: "We have experienced a difficult couple of weeks on the court without much good fortune.

"We have got on with the task in hand and have been working extremely hard to strengthen the team. The signing of Solomon will prove to be a significant factor in our season and we hope to have Andy back soon too.

"Also, we are very close to making a key signing from Lithuania, who we hope to announce on Saturday."