King returns to football with Coventry

Marlon King has made his return to professional football after finally completing his protracted move to Coventry, penning a deal until the end of the season.

The 30-year-old's future in the game came under scrutiny immediately after he was released from prison back in late July having served half of an 18-month sentence for sexual assault and causing actual bodily harm.

But after signing at the Ricoh Arena, King said: "I am very grateful for the chance Coventry City have given me and I look forward to working with Aidy (Boothroyd) again.

"I will be working hard to repeat the success we had when we last worked together (at Watford)."

King saw his contract terminated by then employers Wigan in the aftermath of the well-publicised incident but, shortly after his release, was invited by former Watford manager Boothroyd to train with Coventry.

Having impressed both at their Ryton training facility and for the club's reserves, Boothroyd opted to take a calculated gamble on the striker around two weeks ago and a medical was completed and personal terms agreed.

However, the deal has since been held up for unknown reasons, believed to be above the head of the City boss who, along with King, has been keen to tie things up, and rival npower Championship clubs such as Nottingham Forest reignited late interest.

After much uncertainty, however, Boothroyd has today finally got his man and King is expected to make his Sky Blues debut in Saturday's home clash against Preston.

Boothroyd said: "When I managed Marlon at Watford he was a first class professional and I fully expect that to be the case at Coventry City.

"He's been working very hard with us in an attempt to regain his fitness.

"He has looked sharp in training and in a couple of reserve matches but we will have to assess very carefully when he is ready for the step into Championship football."