LONDON: Newly-promoted Premiership side Birmingham City continued their overhaul of the squad on Monday by signing Egyptian international midfielder Hossam Ghaly from Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur (Spurs) for around 3 million pounds. The 25-year-old international became Birmingham s eighth close season signing after signing a three-year contract and agreeing terms with the club, subject to receiving a work permit.
Hossam is an excellent buy, said Birmingham manager Steve Bruce, who brought City straight back up after they were relegated two seasons ago.
I was always impressed when I saw him play for Spurs. As well as being technically gifted, he can stand up to the physical side of the game and give us that edge, added Bruce, whose six-million-pound bid for Ghaly s club and international team-mate Mido has faltered of late.
Bruce believes Ghaly, who has the option of a further two years, is a perfect replacement for their former captain Stephen Clemence, who has left the club.
With the loss of Clemence, I think Hossam will play a vital role in the middle of the park for us this season, said Bruce.
He has all the credentials that we are looking for in a player, he is only 25, a very talented international who still has the hunger to succeed in the Premier League.
We are delighted to have him on board.
Ghaly joined Spurs from Dutch side Feyenoord on transfer deadline day in January 2006 and went on to make 34 appearances, scoring three goals.
