Prime Minister Tony Blair is backing AFC Wimbledon's bid to get their 18 point deduction overturned on Monday.

During today's Prime Minister's Question Time, Blair condemned the rule that could lead to the Dons being docked 18 points after being informed about the Dons' plight by Mitcham and Morden MP Siobhain McDonagh.

Blair also suggested that the rules should be changed in the House of Commons today.

The charges, that will go to an FA appeal on Monday, relate to the Dons playing full back Jermaine Darlington without the necessary international clearance after his move from Cardiff City without the necessary international clearance.

The controversy surrounding Darlington's Dons move relates to the fact that the Championship side are affiliated to the Welsh FA despite playing in the English league.

AFC Wimbledon chairman Erik Samuelson admits he is overwhelmed by Blair's backing, he said: "I'm just so moved by it all. It's wonderful that the Prime Minister is backing us. Something like 86 MP's have signed the early day motion which is great for a non political motion."

Dons boss Dave Anderson said: "I'm delighted by Siobhain because she understands that there's a lot of people in the area that this is important to.

And he joked: "I'm also delighted with Tony Blair because he's shown that he knows his football."

In response to Blair's comments Alan Turvey, Ryman League chairman, admitted he was disappointed with the Prime Minister's comments.

"It's a pity that Mr Blair has entered into such a thing when the Government sets rules that people have to work. The rule has been approved by our clubs. I regret that a politician of that standing should make such a statement."

The full exchange

Ms McDonagh said: "EDM 992, signed by 86 MPs, concerns an injustice done against a community football team. AFC Wimbledon's hopes of promotion are over due to being docked 18 points, because they didn't know one of their players had previously played for Cardiff City in the English Championship. They didn't know that they needed an international registration for this player to cross the River Severn to play football in south London. Would my right honourable friend give his support to the thousands of football supporters up and down the country who believe there should be justice for everybody's team whether in the Ryman or the Premier League?"

Mr Blair replied: "Actually I agree with her, as a matter of fact. I think she is absolutely right. It sounds to me a daft rule, and someone should change it."

Following the exchange, Ms McDonagh added: "Even the Prime Minister agrees we need to have fairness in sport. The football authorities should stop defending the jobsworths who come up with these rules, and they should apply some common sense."