Martin Jiranek set for Birmingham talks

Birmingham are poised to open talks with central defender Martin Jiranek about extending his contract.

The Cech international only signed a 12-month deal when he moved to Blues from Spartak Moscow last summer.

But he has impressed City boss Alex McLeish since stepping into the side after Scott Dann suffered a long term hamstring problem in January.

When asked if he would like Jiranek to extend his stay, McLeish told Press Association Sport: "Yes, there is no door closed.

"There is a little bit of uncertainty in terms of the league (staying up). We don't know what is going to happen.

"I can't guarantee anything but we'd like to believe we can talk to Martin about a future in the Premier League. He has adapted really well and put in some great tackles during the Carling Cup final."

McLeish admitted: "My first fear was him coping with the aerial side because it is very alien to foreign centre-halves.

"But he has shown some tremendous experience particularly in what could have been some serious situations for us.

"He has stepped in for us with some marvellously timed tackles and positioning."

Jiranek said: "Birmingham have told me that they don't want to release me. We'll see what happens after the season.

"The most important thing for me us that I have made the best of the chance I was given."