Birmingham goalkeeper Jack Butland eyes first-team place

Jack Butland Jack Butland is a 19-year-old goalkeeper currently playing for Championship side Birmingham. The young stopper was promoted to England's squad in Ukraine and Poland when third choice keeper Paul Ruddy sustained an injury. After jo (GETTY IMAGES)

Birmingham's highly-rated teenage goalkeeper Jack Butland is desperate for regular first-team football with the club next year.

The 19-year-old has been named in the Team GB squad for the Olympics and was England's third-choice at Euro 2012 but has yet to make his senior debut for Blues.

He has nevertheless attracted the attention of Barclays Premier League newcomers Southampton, among others.

At the moment, though, Butland is focusing on sealing his place in Birmingham's first XI.

"I want to play as many games at the highest level as I possibly can," he told the Daily Express.

"I should be pushing for a first-team place at Birmingham. That's what I want, not to be sitting on the bench. It is time I played now.

"I've had some great experiences with England at the European Championship and I can't wait for the Olympics to start.

"My name has been linked with some interested clubs and that's flattering. It's not an option for me now though, I need games."

PA