English First Division side Preston North End say they are still keen on Bermudian striker Stephen Astwood.

The Lancashire club offered the PHC frontman a one-year contract earlier in the year after he impressed during a trial period in England.

But problems in obtaining a work permit meant he was not able to accept the contract and his dreams of becoming a professional footballer have had to be put on hold.

Although nothing has changed in terms of Astwood meeting the criteria for a British work permit -- Bermuda are still ranked well below the top 75 footballing nations in the world -- it is encouraging that North End have not simply decided to cool their interest.

Former Bermuda national coach Mark Trott, who was closely involved in getting Astwood the trial, said he had been in touch with the club recently.

"I received a fax from Preston saying they are still interested in Stephen although the manager, David Moyes, would need to reassess the player to ensure he still had the qualities which he felt he had when he wanted to sign him in the summer,'' he said.

When the initial deal fell through there were calls for the Bermuda Football Association and Government to lobby the British to see if there was a way round the permit problem -- especially as Bermuda was a dependency.

Although "backroom'' talks were held, none of those involved have been able to bring a positive conclusion to the matter.

Trott, however, aims to bring the subject to their attention again.

"I'm going to take a copy and pass it on to David Sabir at the BFA and I faxed a copy off to the deputy Governor's office and I'm just hoping with my fingers crossed that someone might be able to bring a bit of holiday cheer,'' he said.

Despite the setback, Astwood has not let it affect his play and has turned in some sparkling performances for the Zebras since returning to the Island.

"I saw him play when they played Devonshire Colts. He was quite brilliant,'' said Trott, who said the player still harboured ambitions to play in England.

"I think he would pack up tomorrow if he knew the permit situation was sorted -- he would be gone in a flash.

"It really is all credit to him. The fact that he hasn't quit. I think he realises that him not making it has nothing to do with his ability. It's strictly a technicality.'' Sabir, general secretary at the BFA, said he hadn't had a chance to assess the situation yet.

But he said: "There is not much we can do, it is out of our jurisdiction. It has always been our status to support where we could and as such we are pleased that Preston North End are still interested in Stephen Astwood.

"Hopefully somewhere along the way the powers that be over in the UK will find it possible in due course to open up the channels of opportunity for Bermuda's youngsters.'' Deputy Governor Tim Gurney, said there was nothing more to report on the matter at this time.

Stephen Astwood: in sensational form for PHC this season.