Deegan signs for Sky Blues

Coventry City have accepted terms with Bohemians for the signature of Gary Deegan. The 22-year-old midfielder joins the Sky Blues on a three- and-a-half year deal to begin on January 4th 2010.

The central midfielder has arguably been the best all round footballer in the League of Ireland this season. At times it was apparent that Deegan was in a class of his own and on many occasions this season one wondered how long it would be possible to keep the Dubliner on these shores.

His partnership in the middle with Paul Keegan provided the fulcrum for Bohemians to mastermind a second title on the trot. Deegan has been the subject of interest from several other clubs, including some in the Premier League and he was also voted onto the 2009 PFAI Team of the Season.

He will be available for Coventry City's home game against Barnsley on Saturday, 9th January 2010.

Coventry City manager Chris Coleman said: "We are delighted to have secured Gary's signature and we believe we have acquired not only a very good technical footballer but also a very tenacious and hard- working one as well who will complement the players we already have here.

"There were a number of other clubs interested in Gary's services so it was important we moved quickly and I'm very much looking forward to working with him when he becomes eligible for us in the New Year."

He scored five goals in 34 appearances for Bohemians, having joined the club in July 2008 from Galway United. He had previously played with Shelbourne and Longford Town.

Deegan will join fellow Irish players Kieren Westwood, Clinton Morrison, Leon Best and David Bell at the West Midlands club. Coventry currently lie in 17th spot in the Coca Cola Championship.