Southampton target Che Adams is happy with Birmingham stay

Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side chased the striker’s signature last month in a bid to bolster their attacking options.

• Nigel Clough hits out at Saints

And on the final day of the window, Saints made it clear to the Blues that their offer for Adams was still on the table if they wanted to take it, however, Birmingham refused to negotiate a deal to sell the 22-year-old.

Adams said: “It was my girlfriend’s birthday, we went out for some food and carried on our day as normal [on deadline day].

“There was not really any point on Thursday when I thought something might happen.

Che Adams in action for Birmingham

“I spoke with the gaffer the day before, we were all on the same page and I think everyone knows I’m happy at Birmingham.

“It’s nice to get the recognition for my football here at Birmingham. It won’t affect me.

“Birmingham have got me to this point and we’re all giving back to each other. That’s what we wanted from the start of the season.

“When the gaffer first walked in, he was talking about commitment from all the players and that’s what everyone’s giving back to him.”

Adams has scored 16 goals in as many games for Birmingham, who could face a points deduction for failing to sell the striker under the EFL’s profit and sustainability rules.

Birmingham City boss Garry Monk

The in-form ace netted from the penalty spot against Nottingham Forest to seal his side's 2-0 win.

Blues boss Garry Monk said: “He is fully committed. I have said it all along.

“Even before when speculation first started a month ago I saw no change in him.

“Then even in the last few days of the window when maybe things became a little bit more serious, no change whatsoever.”