Blues check out Bernard

Olivier Bernard is expected to join Birmingham’s pre-season tour of Norway today.

The 25-year-old French defender is available on a free transfer after completing his short-term contract at Southampton.

Manager Steve Bruce has invited the former Newcastle left-back to train with the squad with a view to signing him on a permanent deal.

City made a late attempt to sign Bernard in the January transfer window after he was released by Newcastle but lost out to Southampton, who were later relegated from the Barclays Premiership.