Birmingham's highly-rated teenage goalkeeper Jack Butland is desperate for regular first-team football with the club next year.
The 19-year-old has been named in the Team GB squad for the Olympics and was England's third-choice at Euro 2012 but has yet to make his senior debut for Blues.
He has nevertheless attracted the attention of Barclays Premier League newcomers Saints, who have had a £6m bid for him turned down, while others have also been keeping an eye on the player.
At the moment, though, Butland is focusing on sealing his place in Birmingham's first XI.
"I want to play as many games at the highest level as I possibly can," he said.
"I should be pushing for a first-team place at Birmingham. That's what I want, not to be sitting on the bench. It is time I played now.
"I've had some great experiences with England at the European Championship and I can't wait for the Olympics to start.
"My name has been linked with some interested clubs and that's flattering. It's not an option for me now though, I need games."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel