Barry Ferguson signs new Blues deal

Birmingham midfielder Barry Ferguson has signed a one-year extension to his contract to remain at St Andrew's until the summer of 2012.

The 32-year-old, who was named the club's players' player of the season last campaign, has impressed since movin from Rangers last summer and was delighted to sign his new deal.

Ferguson, who is on the club's pre-season tour of Hong Kong and China, said: "Before I left on the tour it was all agreed and I signed on the dotted line. I can now concentrate on another two years at Birmingham.

"It was kind of a dual thing — they came to me and had a chat, and I was always interested."

The Scot also revealed that playing a part in a strong season for Alex McLeish's side, who finished ninth in the Premier League had made it an easy decision to stay.

The former Blackburn player has said he is not available for international selection under new Scotland boss Craig Levein.

Ferguson hopes his decision to focus on club football will benefit Blues. "It was a major decision," he said. "I said to Birmingham I would give them everything."