BELGIAN authorities have failed in their attempt to prevent Marouane Fellaini from playing for Everton tomorrow.

Fellaini found himself at the centre of controversy when he withdrew from the Belgium squad to face Estonia in their final World Cup qualifier on Wednesday after undergoing surgery to remove a wisdom tooth.

Everton were of the understanding that the player had reached an agreement with national team coach Dick Advocaat that, having played in the 2-0 win over Turkey on Saturday, he would be released for the operation two days later.

But the Belgian FA dismissed the claims and faxed FIFA on Wednesday to invoke the ‘five-day’ ruling that would have meant Fellaini missing tomorrow’s Premier League visit of Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Wolves manager Mick McCarthy backed the Belgian’s bid for the enforcement of the ruling, which prevents players from turning out for their club less than five days after missing an international game without the permission of his country.

But FIFA contacted Everton yesterday to confirm the midfielder’s availability, declaring the Goodison outfit had no case to answer.

“The Belgian FA did lodge an appeal with FIFA asking them to implement the five-day ruling,” said Everton’s head of communications, Ian Ross, yesterday.

Ross added: “However, FIFA have contacted the club this morning to say that we have no case to answer and that we did comply fully with all necessary legislation.

“We are delighted with the news as Marouane will be available for selection on Saturday.”