Blues sign Barca star

24 June 2009 15:03
Birmingham have completed the signing of Ecuadorian defender Giovanny Espinoza from Barcelona Sporting Club on a two-year deal. And the 32-year-old has set his sights on helping Blues secure Barclays Premier League survival after becoming Alex McLeish's latest capture. Espinoza has won more than 80 caps for his country and participated in two World Cups. But he also has previous experience of playing in Europe with Dutch club Vitesse Arnhem during the 2007-08 campaign. In addition he had spells at Aucas and LDU Quito (Ecuador), Mexican side Monterrey and Brazilian club Cruzeiro. The 6ft 2ins Espinoza is renowned for his strength and speed. He told Birmingham's official website: "I'm very much looking to playing for this club. It's a new step in my football career and I hope I can help the team. "I think I can bring experience to the defence as I've played a lot of games at club level and for the national team. "My objective is the same as the team, to first of all help the club remain in the Premier League. On a personal level I hope to establish myself in the team, give 100% in every game and play as much as possible."

Source: Eurosport