Radhi Jaidi: I would have compromised on new deal at Birmingham City

May 19 2009 by Colin Tattum, Birmingham Mail

Jaidi said he felt he could still do a job, and he would prefer to stay in England.

“Everything is okay with me, I still have confidence in myself,’’ he added

“Since I came to England, I have settled in and the football is nice, I have found a good balance with the football and what I can bring.

“England is part of me now and if I have another opportunity here, one that is good, then I will take it.”

Jaidi signed for Blues in a £2million deal from Bolton Wanderers after relegation in 2006.

He made 93 appearances and this season was a resolute presence in the Championship’s best defence, playing 30 games.

“I have enjoyed myself at Birmingham, the three years have been very good and I think I have played my part in the promotions,” said Jaidi, who is currently relaxing on the Tunisian holiday island of Djerba.

“I thank the fans for how they have treated me and I just want them to keep supporting the team next season when the games will be harder and Birmingham will face bigger teams.”

It’s not fanciful to imagine that Jaidi could yet reappear at St Andrew’s nearer the season on a revised deal, depending on whether McLeish is successful in bringing in a couple of centre-halves and what kind of offers Jaidi receives elsewhere.

He didn’t rule it out.

“We will see what things happen. I am open for anyone to come to me,’’ he said

“But for the moment I am not thinking about anything. I am resting, just enjoying the sunshine and happy that we reached our target this season.”