Source: Team_Talk
McLeish amused by paper rumours
Ridgewell and Larsson have already opened talks over new deals, and the Blues have two and one-year options on their current deals they can take up in any case.[LNB]Benitez, meanwhile, is on loan for the season from Santos Laguna and McLeish has made it clear he wants to sign the Ecuador international on a permanent basis.[LNB]Regarding the reported interest from Hammers owners David Sullivan and David Gold, McLeish said: "I'm not annoyed. It's good fun, all part of the banter.[LNB]"I'm not surprised by anything I read in the papers or see in the media nowadays.[LNB]"The mind games, the Premier League's high profile, all makes for good reading and you get a good laugh sometimes."[LNB]McLeish added: "In terms of players who are out of contract, there are some discussions ongoing.[LNB]"We have got some players coming up to their option periods and we plan to take up those options and let them know more towards the end of the season."[LNB]McLeish has been impressed with Benitez despite a return of only three goals this season and he impressed when returning to the side in the 2-0 midweek win at Portsmouth.[LNB]The Blues boss said: "As regards Christian, I would like to keep him here.[LNB]"But we have still got work to do and I don't want to talk about anyone's futures until we get the job done finally and the season is over."[LNB]Meanwhile, Birmingham youngsters, striker Jake Jervis and goalkeeper Jack Butland have signed professional contracts with the club.[LNB]Jervis, 18, made his senior debut in the FA Cup clash at Everton earlier this season while Butland, 17, has played for the England Under-16 side.[LNB][LNB] Birmingham v Everton. Click here to bet.
