Michel joined the Blues from Spanish side Sporting Gijon last January

Birmingham City's Spanish midfielder Michel has joined AEK Athens on loan for the rest of the season.

The 25-year-old joined Birmingham last January from Sporting Gijon but has made only nine first-team appearances.

Blues manager Alex McLeish says the presence of Barry Ferguson has kept the Spaniard out of the team.

"I am sorry the Michel one has not worked out but Barry Ferguson's form has been stunning and made it difficult for him," said McLeish.

"Who knows, it could have been different if he had got the nod ahead of Barry and played regular football.

606: DEBATE Give your reaction to Michel's departure

"I've been involved in a few transfer dealings over the past couple of years and I'm disappointed one hasn't worked out."

Michel, whose full name is Miguel Marcos Madera, said: "I'm happy to have joined AEK, a team which plays in Europe. It is a well-known club with history in Greece and Europe.

"I've come here to play until the summer and we'll see after then."

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