Craig Gardner at St. Andrew's today

Craig Gardner has today completed a £3 million move to Blues.

The midfielder put pen-to-paper on an initial four-and-a-half year deal from Aston Villa.

The 23-year-old, who has the versatility to also play at full-back, has been at Villa Park since he was a trainee and has made 79 appearances for Villa, including picking up valuable European experience.

Gardner, who is a Bluenose, has found his first team opportunities limited so has opted to embrace the challenge of joining Alex McLeish's squad.

The former England Under 21-international is ineligible for Blues' trip to Chelsea on Wednesday due to negotiations not being concluded in time in order for the paperwork to be executed and registered before the 12.00 noon Premier League deadline.

The Yardley-born star is the second player to arrive at St. Andrew's this January transfer window following the signing of Michel earlier this month.

Speaking exclusively to bcfc.com, Gardner spoke of his delight at signing for Blues.

"I'm over the moon especially being at the club I supported as a boy," he said.

"I just can't wait to get out there, put the shirt on and do well for the club. I have not slept properly for the last three or four days waiting until the deal to be done. Now it's done it's unbelievable."

Gardner has been allocated squad number 33.