Dunn: Bruce key to transfer

DAVID DUNN was convinced to swap home-town heroes Blackburn for Birmingham after Steve Bruce promised to make him a better player, the England midfielder said.

Dunn, 23, completed his protracted £5.5million move to St Andrews yesterday after six years as a professional with Rovers. He admitted the move had been difficult, but after being publicly criticised by Blackburn manager Graeme Souness he wants a new challenge at Birmingham.

Dunn was the subject of a last-ditch bid from Middlesbrough, who had their offer accepted by Rovers but had no chance to talk to the player who by then was already deep in discussions with Birmingham.