Blues eye McLeish talks

McLeish: Set for new deal

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Birmingham City are ready to hand manager Alex McLeish a new contract at the end of the season.

The Blues are riding high in seventh place, having gone on a nine-match unbeaten run.

Now new owner Carson Yeung is ready to open talks with McLeish - who has 18 months left on his current deal.

"Put it this way, we would consider it a disaster if anyone would come and snatch Alex McLeish away. That won't happen," vice-chairman Peter Pannu told the Daily Express.

"We need to protect ourselves. We are doubly impressed with Alex - with his achievement within the budget here and his whole approach. Carson is absolutely thrilled.

"Alex has done a wonderful job. He can stay as long as he wants to stay with us.

"We will review it at the completion of this season. We still have five months to go and Alex's contract is for 18 months.

"I am a lawyer and a very pragmatic person. Having done a couple of family law cases in my early years I know how things can sour between husband and wife, let alone in football.

"So let's take it in our stride. We are doing very well now and I have no doubts that will continue with new players coming in during January.

"If this was the end of the season right now, I would give Alex a new contract straight away.

"I think, touch wood, we will remain in the Premier League now.

"I have to say, also, that Alex is not pushing us right now for a new contract - as some managers might."