Persistent Blues Finally Land Mcsheffrey

Birmingham today signalled their intention not to miss out on a share of next season's new Premiership television deal by completing the signing of Gary McSheffrey for £4m.

The Blues had failed with four previous bids for the 24-year-old, who scored 17 goals for Coventry last season, but their persistence has finally been rewarded with McSheffrey's acquisition on a four-year deal, with the option of a further two years.

Coventry managing director Paul Fletcher believes this was the most difficult decision the club's board has had to make in recent years. "It was never our intention to let Gary go," he said. "But we have made a decision which we believe is in the best interests of Coventry City, having discussed the latest offer with the board, manager and the player himself.

"Gary has been a tremendous servant to this football club but there comes a time in everyone's career when they have an opportunity to move on. Although I understand that this decision will be unpopular with many of our supporters, I would urge all of our fans to look long-term towards our goal of reaching the Premiership within the next three years. We are still totally committed towards that objective. This money will help Micky Adams to strengthen the squad and create a better team to get us there."

A product of Coventry's youth academy, McSheffrey became the Premiership's youngest player when he made his debut as a 16-year-old against Aston Villa in 1999. Since then, he has gone on to make 162 appearances for the Sky Blues in all competitions.