Dudley DJ Campbell, the striker shown the door by Stevenage Boro, has become a million pound man. The 24-year-old was signed by Premiership outfit Birmingham City this week for half a million, although the fee could double depending on appearances and w

Dudley 'DJ' Campbell, the striker shown the door by Stevenage Boro, has become a million pound man.

The 24-year-old was signed by Premiership outfit Birmingham City this week for half a million, although the fee could double depending on appearances and what he achieves at the Midlands club.

He was signed for Boro by previous manager Paul Fairclough in the summer of 2001 but never really made much of an impression at Broadhall Way.

Loaned out to various clubs by Wayne Turner, he was eventually released by Graham Westley at the start of his reign three years ago.

Campbell resurrected his career at Yeading, including playing against Newcastle last season, before signing for League One Brentford in the summer.

A flurry of goals, especially the two which knocked Sunderland out of the FA Cup on Saturday, earned his big money move.

Turner said: "I'm delighted for him although he drove me crackers. DJ couldn't drive, was constantly late for training and had a real difficult life which deeply affected his football.

"He was a gifted player but all over the place in his personal life. It looks the penny has dropped and he is a changed character."

He will become the second player after Barry Hayles to play in the Premiership after leaving Boro and Stevenage will benefit financially due to a sell-on clause.

Turner added: "It's now his true test as he is further away from home, new players and coaching staff, and there is more expectation. He was a good lad and I hope he does well."

Another former Boro man, central defender Sam Sodje, also helped Brentford to cup success.

* Boro is at home to Aldershot Town this Saturday. They will look to make up ground after taking one point out of a possible nine, including crashing 2-0 at Tamworth on Saturday.

The reserves beat Leyton Orient 3-1 on Wednesday afternoon thanks to goals from Eric Obinna, Jefferson Louis and Kieran Deane.