Blues move to hang on to Bruce

STEVE BRUCE yesterday agreed a new five-year contract with Birmingham City.

The club moved to secure a long-term deal in the wake of speculation linking him with other clubs, including Newcastle and Man United.

But the former Old Trafford captain has decided to remain at St Andrews, where he had a spell as a player.

Midfielder Muzzy Izzet, striker Emile Heskey and winger Julian Gray have been drafted in for the new season and Bruce has also agreed a one-year extension to forward Mikael Forssell’s loan from Chelsea.

Since taking over in 2001, Bruce has guided Birmingham to the Premiership after a 16-year top-flight absence.

Last season’s 10th place was their best finish for 31 years.