ROWETT WAITING ON CITY SLICKERS
BIRMINGHAM boss Gary Rowett admits he is eager to keep hold of a pair of his stars next season.
With the campaign winding down and attentions turning to the summer and beyond, goalkeeper Darren Randolph is near the top of Rowett’s priority list.
The 27-year-old stopper’s current contract is due to expire in June and his manager is keen to sort out an extension sooner rather than later.
“The situation is quite simple with Darren, I have been quite open and honest with him,” said Rowett. “There is a little bit of interest from the Premier League.
“We are hoping that doesn’t come to fruition but, like with all players, you have to give them the opportunity if that arises, you couldn’t stand in his way.
“I think what he will do very quickly if that doesn’t happen is commit to the club. It is quite an open thing with us. He has been such a good player for me, he deserves to be given that chance at least.”
But it is not just Randolph, with American defender or midfielder Jonathan Spector also out of contract in the summer.
Spector, who arrived at St Andrew’s from Premier League side West Ham in 2011, has shown his versatility on more than one occasion this season.
And Rowett admits he would be sad to see the 29year-old depart the club when his current deal runs out.
“He is another one we would like to keep,” he added.
“He has done really well for us, we are really pleased with him.We like his versatility and he’s good off the pitch.
“As a centre half he is very, very good. He showed at Reading he can also do a job defensively as a full back.
“They are the type of characters and players we want around.”