Kevin Long returns to Birmingham City for a second stint

Birmingham City has announced the return of Irish defender Kevin Long on a one-year contract, with the possibility of an additional year. 

Kevin Long, who previously joined the Blues during the second half of the 2022/23 season, will rejoin the team for the upcoming pre-season.

Long's first term with Birmingham City was marked by the team securing their position in the Sky Bet Championship with three games remaining. This achievement was a noteworthy one as it resulted in the team's highest points tally in six seasons.

During his previous term with the Blues, Long, 32, made 20 appearances, with six of those matches ending in clean sheets. The defender also marked victories with goals against Forest Green Rovers and Rotherham United.

In an interview with BluesTV, Long expressed his anticipation to continue with the team and work towards achieving more.

"I am delighted to be signing back. Coming here in January, after going some time without playing football, was a bit tough. But all the lads made me feel welcome and the Head Coach was great along with his staff," Long said.

He highlighted his positive experience at the club and how it influenced his decision to return, despite receiving other offers.

Long's professional career kicked off in his hometown club, Cork City, where his performance led to his transfer to Burnley in January 2010.

During his 13 years at Burnley, Long was loaned out six times, including two stints at neighbouring Accrington Stanley and additional periods at Rochdale, Barnsley, Portsmouth, and Milton Keynes Dons.

His career milestones also include helping Burnley secure automatic promotion to the Premier League and subsequently representing them in the UEFA Europa League.

After spending the first half of the previous term with Vincent Kompany's Championship-winning Burnley, Long shifted to Birmingham City, where he quickly became a regular player. Long started 17 out of the 20 league matches between January and May.