Hovik Nersesyan, who plays for Whitchurch Alport FC, says the Armenian government has ordered him to return for national service.

The club has hired a solicitor to represent the 23-year-old in court later this month and has launched a petition which has been signed more than 1,000 times.

"In my country they are looking for me," Hovik said. "If I go back now they will put me in prison and then after the imprisonment, I have to go to the army and my life will be in danger."

When Hovik came to the UK two years ago, footballers representing their country were exempt from national service but since then, a war has broken out with Azerbaijan.

Hovik added: "Now they don't care if you are a footballer. The government is taking everyone and sending them to fight. I read in the Azerbaijan news that Armenian soldiers are dying every day.

"Here in Shropshire I am safe and I like living here. Hopefully I will get a good decision in court."

First team manager Luke Goddard said was a worrying time for Hovik.

"As soon as we realised how serious this was, the club jumped on it and started fighting the case," he said. "We're putting a strong case together and hopefully it means he can stay.

Advertising

"He's here on a visa which means he can't work, he can't claim benefits, and is just living off a few pounds with his aunt. He is a genuinely nice man who deserves the opportunity to have a chance at making it professionally."

Hovik arrived in the UK two years ago and has played for Eccleshall FC, Nantwich Town FC and Crewe FC before heading to Alport.

Mr Goddard added: "I think we've got a strong case. There's cases of people going back to their country and even being tortured. He's just an innocent young man and it's a worrying time for him but the people of Whitchurch and the club supporters are really supporting him."

Hovik's appeal for political asylum and will be heard in court on February 19.

The petition will be sent to the Home Office at the end of the week and can be signed online at avaaz.org/en/petition/The_Home_Office_Save_Hovik_Nersesyan