It may be unwise to read too much into this - but we note from a Press Association report that Celta Vigo have officially classified Silvinho as a Brazilian, ie. a non-European, having signed him at the end of last week.

We need hardly remind you that questions were asked about the legitimacy of Silvinho's claim to EU (Portuguese) nationality. But an Arsenal spokesman is quoted: 'Arsenal have acted appropriately at all times with regard to this matter and liaised closely with the Home Office over Silvinho's registration in this country.' So let's leave it at that.