The European governing body turned down the proposed link-up earlier this week because Oswestry is over the border in England, even though Oswestry FC already play in the Welsh Premier.

Uefa granted the appeal after considering the history of the development of football in Britain and in Wales and Oswestry's long-standing membership of the Football Association of Wales (FAW).

Man City v TNS

The plan already has the approval of the FAW and a 3,000-seat purpose-built stadium is under consideration.

Criticism of the merger has come from some Oswestry fans, but the club's secretary James Bond was keen to stress that it is the only way forward for the club.

TNS have pledged to recognise the history and tradition of Oswestry Oswestry Town secretary James Bond

"We scrutinised every possible path forward for the club, including asking to be relegated, swapping into the English pyramid, and even packing up altogether," said Bond.

"The TNS path was head and shoulders above any other. I personally have given up large amounts of time (and money) to make sure Oswestry kept going, even to ensure it didn't fold in the middle of last season, and I wouldn't have recommended a road for the club that wasn't to its benefit.

"TNS have pledged to recognise the history and tradition of Oswestry in the merger, to play an equal number of games in green and white and in blue, to have the names of Oswestry Town and Llansantffraid (TNS) on the shirts, badges and letterheads."