Jol Rejects Blues
20th November, 2007
Following the departure of Steve Bruce as manager on Monday, Birmingham City have been on the lookout for a high profile manager, and it has emerged that ex-Spurs boss Martin Jol was contacted regarding the post. However, Birmingham owner David Sullivan told how Jol turned down the offer, saying he needs a break before returning to management: "Martin thanked us for our interest but said it was too early for him to consider coming back into football such a short time after leaving Spurs. That is the type of coach we are looking at, someone with a pedigree that will excite the supporters."
With an imminent takeover bid from Carson Yeung, who is interested in raising the profile of the club, Sullivan remains confident of bringing in a decent successor for Bruce: The usual suspects will be on everyone's lips but this could be a fresh start for Birmingham City," added Sullivan.
"We are looking at candidates at a certain level. It is a difficult one to try and get someone in who the dressing room will respect. Do you take a chance on an unproven coach at this level with a group of young players who will need guidance and will be looking for inspiration? Or do you go for a more experienced voice, someone respected in the world of football?"
Birmingham remain third favorites for the drop, at 11/8 with Paddy Power.
