Hossam Ghaly has joined Birmingham City from Tottenham Hotspur on a three-year deal for £3million ($6million), the Premiership newly-promoted club announced on Monday. The Egyptian midfielder's move to St Andrews is subject to him being granted a work permit. Birmingham manager Steve Bruce is delighted to have signed the talented player, believing that his capabilities will be very useful to Blues. "The signing of Hossam is an excellent acquisition," he told the club's official website. "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 Premiership. "As well as being technically gifted, Hossam can also stand up to the physical side of the game so he will give us that extra competitive edge in midfield. We are delighted to have him on board," he added.
Ghaly began his career with Ahli before moving to Dutch side Feyenoord in 2003. After impressing at De Kuip, he joined Tottenham in January 2006 to link up with his compatriot Mido at White Hart Lane. He established himself as a talent to watch last season but his relationship with Tottenham boss Martin Jol strained after his furious reaction for being substituted in a Premiership game against Blackburn Rovers. Ghaly was introduced to the pitch in the 29th minute instead of the injured Steed Malbranque but was booed by his own fans whenever he touched the ball. This was mainly due to Ghaly's delay in passing the ball that led to him being replaced on the hour mark, making way for striker Robbie Keane. However, Jol's decision was not welcomed by the 25-year-old as he threw down his shirt and went straight into the tunnel amid heavy boos from the home crowd.
