Blues up bid for Charles N'Zogbia

Birmingham have increased their bid for Wigan winger Charles N'Zogbia as new goalkeeper Ben Foster checked in at St Andrew's.

Blues made a fresh move for the former Newcastle wide man as they unveiled England international Foster as their first key signing of the summer.

Boss Alex McLeish has already seen one bid for N'Zogbia, believed to be worth around £8million, rejected by the Latics. But Birmingham appear determined to land the talented Frenchman and today tabled an improved offer.

Foster was paraded this morning after signing from Manchester United but insisted his move to St Andrew's is "not a step down."

The 27-year-old has swapped Manchester United for Blues in a deal worth an initial £4million, but does not believe exchanging a bit-part role at Old Trafford for a first-team position with Blues represents a backwards step.

He said: "I don't see it as a step down. I had five years at Manchester United and loved every minute, but the last couple of years have been up and down for me.

"I see this as a new chapter in my career and I am just looking forward to playing.

"The most important thing for a player is looking forward to playing football on a Saturday and that is what Birmingham have offered me."