McSheffrey set to join Blues

COVENTRY CITY striker Gary McSheffrey, prevented from representing Ireland by European red tape, looks likely to join Birmingham City this week.

Coventry turned down a £2 million (€2.9m) bid, as only £1.25m (€1.8m) was to be paid up front to the cash-strapped club, with the remainder dependant on appearances.

Birmingham boss Steve Bruce badly needs a goalscorer to replace Emile Heskey and will up his offer this week.

McSheffrey, who played alongside Ireland boss Steve Staunton for Coventry, was desperate to represent Ireland. Unfortunately, the Coventry-born striker, 24 next month, who has three Irish grandparents and one Scottish grandparent, fell foul of FIFA regulations.

McSheffrey represented England at U-18 level three times and rules that came into force in January 2004 insist multi-qualified players must decide which country they want to play for by their 21st birthday. McSheffrey was over 21 when those regulations were implemented.