Alex McLeish - Blues need to keep quality players

Jan 21 2008 By Colin Tattum, Birmingham Mail

OLIVIER Kapo is not for sale, and only an 'exceptional' bid would tempt manager Alex McLeish.

Steve Bruce and Wigan Athletic, Sunderland and Portsmouth have all been linked with the mercurial French attacker.

"We don't have to let him go and unless it is an exceptional bid, I don't see why we have to let players of his quality leave," said McLeish.

"At the same time I've added to the forwards and it is difficult to keep everyone happy."

McLeish dished out praise for Kapo after his performance in Saturday's loss to Chelsea.

"He has got flashes of brilliance and he is looking fit and strong. He is a terrific player when he is in that kind of mood.

"He worked really hard as well and you've got to admire the work rate of every single player on Saturday, and Kapo and Franck Queudrue on the left side were excellent."