Birmingham's Alexander Hleb turned down Liverpool and Tottenham

Alexander Hleb says he turned down Liverpool and Tottenham before clinching a loan move to Birmingham City.The former Arsenal midfielder has joined the Blues on a season-long loan from Barcelona and is delighted to rejoin what he calls 'the most entertaining league in the world'.The 29-year-old told Belarus newspaper Pressball: 'There were many offers: Liverpool, Tottenham, Benfica. But it was necessary to carefully consider all the options. With some we were unable to agree terms.' On the move? Barcelona midfielder Alexander HlebBenfica thought they had clinched a deal for Hleb before conceding defeat to the lure of England on Monday night.'Birmingham City apparently wanted me more than anyone else, so theywere my preference,' said the player. 'The decision was prompted by thefact I am well acquainted with the English championship. 'This is perfect right now, when I need match practice. The Premier League is the most entertaining league on the planet.'Birmingham are a stable club and the manager Alex McLeish is a goodprofessional. They are not Arsenal, who play every year in theChampions League, but for me it is important now to be playingregularly and returning to my previous level.'To be honest, the last year and a half hasn't been what it should.But the deal with Birmingham is my chance and I must take it.' Hleb emerges as £4m Barcelona target for Birmingham boss McLeishLIVE: Transfer deadline day - keep track of all the latest news before the window slams shutTOTTENHAM HOTSPUR FC

Source: Daily_Mail