Alex McLeish hopeful on Blues deal

Birmingham manager Alex McLeish is hopeful of striking a deal to extend his contract in the next few weeks.

The Blues chief has opened talks with club officials about a new deal and is relaxed about the progress of negotiations.

But McLeish believes all parties would like an agreement soon.

He said: "These things take time but, if we can get it done in the next few weeks, it would obviously give people peace of mind.

"One or two of the players have been asking me what's happening.

"But I'm bringing in people like Ben Foster and Nikola Zigic, I wouldn't do that and then say 'adios' the next day."

McLeish has a year remaining on his current St Andrew's deal and officials are keen to tie him down for the long-term.

Fans are also anxious to see negotiations concluded, especially with bookmakers including the former Glasgow Rangers and Scotland manager in the betting to replace departed Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez.

But vice-chairman Peter Pannu is happy with the progress of the talks.

He said: "I have touched base with Alex's representatives. We have had initial talks and we will talk again."

On the Liverpool link, Pannu added: "I don't respond to idle gossip or rumour.

"If any club approached us for our manager, I would deal with it then and no club has."