Birmingham City 0 Sporting Gijon 0

Aug 9 2009 by Colin Tattum, Sunday Mercury

ALEX McLeish admitted that he didn’t know whether he would be able to launch a bid for Gijon star Michel after this friendly ended in stalemate.

The midfielder strolled elegantly around St Andrew’s yesterday in Blues final warm-up before the Premier League trip to Manchester United a week today.

And although McLeish has been trailing him for some while, he was unable to provide any clues about the chances of a £3 million move.

“I thought he was very comfortable, he’s an elegant player with great athleticism,” said the Blues boss.

“We are just going to have to wait and see what happens in the next couple of days. I will have to speak to the chairman and the board to see what the finances are.

“Michel is obviously a guy we like, the same as other guys also.

“I know I have to make my mind up on him, but it also depends on what Sporting are asking.”

McLeish said that he was happy that Blues tightened up and performed with a good shape, and also had the better chances.

McLeish opted for a 4-5-1 to start with. Cameron Jerome was up front on his own, with Lee Bowyer asked to provide the immediate support.

Franck Queudrue was again included at centre-half due to the glut of injuries at the back.

Blues debuted Gregory Vignal at left-back and the former Liverpool defender got stuck in.

He announced himself by up-ending winger Miguel de las Cuevas from behind in the third minute and continued to be dogged and competent in his work.