MICHAEL ON HIS WAY BACK

Supporters donations played their part in his return

After donations by Liverpool supporters to the Free Michael Shields fund, and a sizeable loan taken out by the family, Michael should be heading back to the UK soon.

But the campaign goes on.

Michael was sentenced to 15 years in Bulgaria. This was reduced to 10 years and a £90,000 fine on appeal.

After the family finally raised the remainder of the money it was paid last week.

Michael will return to the UK to see out the rest of his sentence.

A Foreign Office spokesman confirmed today that the Bulgarian authorities have now authorised the transfer.

He added: "We will now be making arrangements for the transfer of Michael Shields to a UK prison." Mr Shields' family, who insist he is innocent, welcomed the decision.

His uncle, Joey Shields, said: "We will not be happy until Michael's name has been cleared, but of course it is good news that he is coming back to this country, even if it is to a prison.

"We just hope the experience of 18 months in a Bulgarian prison has not been too much for him. He could be in pieces."

It is understood the transfer may take place within the next fortnight, but the Home Office said the exact date will not be revealed.

The fight for Michael's justice will continue when he returns to the UK, hopefully more prominent in the national media's eye.

Discuss this news story in the LFC Forum