Phillips pens one year extension at Birmingham

Birmingham striker Kevin Phillips has signed a one-year contract extension.

The 36-year-old had been tipped to depart St Andrews after the club had been close to signing Palermo’s Fabrizio Miccoli, only for the forward to announce that he wanted to stay in Italy.

“Some people may ask why we’ve retained the services of a 36-year-old but let me tell you he’s still extremely fit, in fact his Prozone figures are excellent - his Body Fat Index is one of the lowest in the Premier League.

“Of course as any player gets older the legs go a little bit but the reason Kev has still got it is because he plays with his head - he’s got an instinct that means that more often than not he’s in the right place at the right time. He’s a natural born finisher.

“He’s also great to have around the dressing room because he’s a tremendous character. He’s bought into the idea of being an impact player for us if the team is under pressure.

“During the first half of last season he was naturally a bit frustrated with not starting games but I had a good chat with him in January and explained what we were looking to do and that there was no better man than him inside the box.

“I saw an extra spark from him in training after that and I know how much he enjoys being a Blues player so the contract extension is good news all round.”

He added: “I’m aware that if Kev comes on and partners Nikola that comparisons will inevitably be made of when he played up front with Niall (Quinn) in those Sunderland glory days.

“That was a long time ago when Kev was in his prime but he has still got a great technique and so that partnership is an option.

“We are looking to continue to develop and strengthen the squad and the infrastructure at the club but it’s also a season for me not to take any chances. I’m looking to bring in players that I know - and that’s another reason why it’s great to still have Kev as part of things.”

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