Stephen Carr is delighted with his new Birmingham City contract.

The fullback has penned new 12-month deal with the option for another year.

Just 18 months ago Carr had retired from football, as has been well publicised. The prospect that nearly two years on he may be looking at a second successive season with a top flight club was unimaginable.

But, thanks to the persuasion of Blues manager Alex McLeish, Carr looks every inch the Premier League performer again as he did in his days with Newcastle United and Tottenham.

Carr told bcfc.com: "I've got to be honest, I couldn't see any of this happening 18 months ago. And now I just can't wait to get started on Saturday.

"I know all of the lads think exactly the same - they are relishing the challenge. And it's one we're determined to rise to."