Birmingham rule out Ridgewell move

Birmingham City have turned down an offer for defender Liam Ridgewell from West Brom.

Baggies boss Roy Hodgson has identified the experienced defender as an ideal addition to his squad but will have to return with an increased amount after the Championship outfit rejected the undisclosed offer.

The Blues refused to grant Ridgewell a move last summer after he handed in a transfer request to force through a switch back to the Premier League following his side’s relegation, and the club face a battle to keep hold of him during the current window.

The 27-year-old has also reportedly attracted the interest of Newcastle United and QPR, having made a total of 19 appearances in all competitions for Birmingham this season.

Ridgewell has plenty of top-flight experience having also represented Aston Villa in the Premier League early in his career.