FOOTBALL: Taylor to fight for place
NORTHERN Ireland goalkeeper Maik Taylor has vowed to fight for his place at club level.
Newly-promoted Birmingham Cityhave taken Manchester City keeper Joe Hart on a season long loan, as well as signing defender Giovanny Eslinoza from Barcelona Sporting Club.
Taylor played a major role in helping Birmingham regain their Premier League status at the first attempt last season. But the 37-year-old's place is now under threat after Hart formally completed his temporary move to St Andrew's on Wednesday.
Taylor said: "Joe Hart's name has been linked with Birmingham in the papers for a while and I have not had a problem with that.
"The gaffer (Alex McLeish] is trying to strengthen the squad in every position.I will work hard when pre-season gets under way and am more than happy to fight for my place."
If Hart does take over as McLeish's number one, it would be another blow to Nigel Worthington as another of his players would not be playing regular first team football.
Man City manager Mark Hughes believes Hart will shine at St Andrews.
"I have always said that Joe is a really good young keeper, and his talent was obvious to our goalkeeping coach Kevin Hitchcock and I from the outset.
"His contribution to the team prior to Shay Given's arrival was fantastic, but by loaning him to Birmingham, he will add invaluable experience to that already gained here at City.
"I know he will relish the prospect of regular Premier League action, which is vital at this stage in his career."
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Weather for Belfast
Tuesday 14 February 2012
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