Lazaridis signs new Birmingham deal

Stan Lazaridis has signed a two-year contract which will keep him at St Andrews until 2006.

The 32-year-old had 12 months left of his previous deal and had been attracting interest from several other clubs.

But the Australia international had always stated his preference to remain at the Blues, whom he joined five years ago from West Ham.

Lazaridis has made himself an integral part of manager Steve Bruce’s side after struggling to hold down even a place in the First Division on his arrival from Crystal Palace midway through the 2001-2002 season.

Bruce said: “Stan has done an excellent job since I came to the club and has even showed how well he can do at left-back.

“He has helped us establish ourselves in the Premiership over the past two seasons. It’s good news he’s staying.”

Former Tottenham midfielder Darren Anderton could also be moving to St Andrews after a successful trial period with the club.

Anderton has been hit by injuries during his time at White Hart Lane but is understood to be ready to sign a 12-month contract.