Larsson wants Forssell to stay

Striker out of contract in summer

By Amanda Cornforth   Last updated: 15th March 2008

Mikael Forssell Birmingham

Forssell: Out of contract

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Birmingham's Sebastian Larsson is urging the club to keep hold of striker Mikael Forssell.

Forssell's current contract expires in the summer but there is a two-year option that can be taken if both parties agree.

The Finnish international has impressed in partnership with James McFadden, who moved to St Andrew's in January, and proved his worth as he bagged a hat-trick in the 4-1 win over Tottenham.

McFadden was a substitute in the midweek game against Portsmouth after his partner gave birth, but the pair will line up alongside each other again against Newcastle at home on Monday as they bid to haul themselves away from the relegation zone.

Whilst Forssell's future is likely to depend on Birmingham's league status next season as he is one of their highest earners, midfielder Larsson hopes that a deal can be reached to keep him at the club.

Hopes

"When Mikael is fit, like he is now, and getting a few games under his belt, everyone knows what he can do," Larsson said.

"He got a hat-trick in the last home game and was fantastic and Mikael and James McFadden have looked really good together lately as a partnership.

"It is important to keep a proven goalscorer at the club, definitely. Mikael has got more to his game than just scoring goals and hopefully it is something Mikael and the club can sort out."