Birmingham City boss Alex McLeish is hoping the positive vibes from Eastlands in respect of a further extension on Joe Hart’s loan deal continue.

 

The young keeper who maintains hopes of making Fabio Capello’s World Cup squad has done his cause no harm whatsoever with his performances for the St Andrew’s club this season and McLeish would love to retain his services. However, whilst the indicators are positive, no deal has yet been secured.

“I hope Joe will be here next season. I know that City don’t want to sell him,” said McLeish. “We were told City would show the goodwill to allow us to have Joe for another season.” The loan spell with regular first team action has benefited all parties and although City are unlikely to be tempted to sell, the positives of Hart’s continued exposure to Premier League action could persuade them to allow him a further year with the Blues. “I’m sure they recognise that we’ve improved Joe as a goalkeeper” McLeish added, ‘‘The potential was there anyway of course, but we’ve definitely helped Joe. I’m sure he wouldn’t want to go back to a situation where he’s twiddling his thumbs on the bench. There’s dialogue to be done with City and hopefully they’ll show goodwill.“

Meanwhile, 38 year-old Northern Ireland international Maik Taylor could be offered a further year’s contract. Despite first team appearances being limited to a single game, and that due to Hart’s ineligibility, McLeish is keen to keep him. “We haven’t sat down to speak yet but I don’t see any reason why not. Maik’s at a cracking level of fitness for a man of his age. He’s a dedicated professional”.