Birmingham City Football Club News

• Nickname:Blues
• Founded:1875
• Manager:Chris Hughton

• Ground:St Andrew's
• Capacity:30,016

Schmitz keen on Blues stay

27 Nov 2007 - 12:06:27

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Defender Rafael Schmitz is keen to make his loan switch from Lille to Birmingham City a permanent arrangement.

The 26-year-old has played in the Blues' last five Premier League games after starting the season on the substitute's bench.

Schmitz said: "The opportunity arose to come to Birmingham and I have been really happy since I arrived.

"The football is different to what I was used to in Brazil and France, more direct and aggressive, but I am starting to find my feet now.

"I have given everything to the cause to try and help the team gain the right results and I will try and help the younger players if I can.

"Would I like to move permanently? Of course. I have been made to feel really welcome. I would be very happy to stay here if something could be sorted out."

The Brazilian-born Schmitz has impressed in a left-back role recently after previously playing in central defence.