Nikola Zigic targets Europe with Blues

Birmingham new-boy Nikola Zigic has targeted European football after speaking for the first time about his move to the Premier League.

The 6ft 8in Serbia international admitted he could not turn down a move to England and insisted Blues can qualify for Europe.

Zigic will be the tallest man to play in the England top flight, after completing his £6million switch from Valencia.

He said: "I did hear it through various sources Birmingham were interested in me and what really swayed me to come over was the potential of playing for such a big club in the Premier League and the potential of playing in Europe.

"It was an opportunity I couldn't really turn down. I am absolutely delighted to be here at Birmingham. I have always wanted to play in the Premier League and to get the opportunity is a fabulous thing.

"I have been watching the Premier League for many, many years. I think being involved with it will be tremendous and I'm thoroughly looking forward to it.

"It's a regular thing I have watched and kept up to date with."

Zigic takes over from Wolves striker Stefan Maeirhofer - just half an inch shorter - as the Premier League's tallest player.

Peter Crouch is next at 6ft 7ins and Zigic is hopeful eclipsing the achievements of the Tottenham and England forward.

The new signing said: "I aim to be a little bit better than Peter Crouch and use my height a little bit better, maybe. I am determined to use my height and size as a strong advantage for the club.

Blues boss Alex McLeish believes the club are getting a cultured footballer - however tall he is.

He said: "I hear through the grapevine that he calls Peter Crouch wee man, so that tells you how tall he is!

"But despite his height he's a good footballer. He can take the ball in and he brings other people into play.

"I was speaking to Raddy Antic, the coach of the Serbia national team, who told me he was a fantastic team player and I'm looking forward to having that type of character in the ranks.

"We have that in abundance at this club and we look for Nikola to give us that work ethic also.

"I've seen him over a number of years."