Hogan happy to make deal permanent
SCOTT Hogan has revealed his desire to sign for Blues permanently.The striker has been a hit at St Andrew’s after joining on loan from Villa in the January transfer window. He has scored seven goals in eight appearances and struck up a prolific partnership with Lukas Jutkiewicz.
Blues would love to convert Hogan’s loan into a full-time arrangement and the player has opened the door for a move if the opportunity arises.
He said: “I have made friends there, they have made me feel at home so I will be happy to do it if it comes about.”
Hogan cost Villa £12 million from Brentford in 2017 but he didn’t make a single Championship start under Dean Smith last season. He finished the campaign at Sheffield United and began this one at Stoke before going to Blues.
It has all fallen into place under Pep Clotet for the 28-year-old, who has 12 months remaining on his deal at Villa.
“It’s gone really well,” Hogan added. “I always thought I could do it but it’s just about getting regular games and I have not had that for two or three years now so it’s been tough. I got off to a good start and it seems to have gone from there. Hopefully we can get back and I can carry on where I left off.”
Lee Bullen expects James Beattie to join him on Sheffield Wednesday’s coaching staff.
The former Owls caretaker has been assistant to Garry Monk since the former Blues boss arrived at Hillsborough.
Monk expected to bring with him members of the backroom team from St Andrew’s.
But Blues refused to budge, insisting Wednesday pay for the privilege, and Beattie has remained out of the picture since pre-season. “Garry came in on his own when, nine times out of ten, a new manager will come in at least with his assistant,” said Bullen. “At the time Garry had just left Blues. His assistant (Clotet) had taken over.
“His No.3, James Beattie, was put on gardening leave and still had two years left of his contract. “Wednesday weren’t willing to pay compensation and Birmingham weren’t willing to release the lad so he’s been twiddling his thumbs. He’s still getting paid by Birmingham, which is mad. I wouldn’t be surprised if at some point James joined the group.”