Birmingham City boss Lee Bowyer admits missing a Premier League move was a blow for Kristian Pedersen.

The Dane was a target for former Newcastle United manager Steve Bruce.

Bowyer recalled: "I got a call from Steve Bruce, but there was no more. There was no contact from anyone or offers or anything. It's going to be hard for Kristian.

"I think it hurt him this summer because he might have thought he might get that switch to the Premier League, but now he just has to keep going and do his job."

Pedersen is off contract in June.

Bowyer continued: "As I understand it, we have given him several offers. His agent says he will not sign anything at the moment. It is his choice and no one can force him.

"If he chooses to switch, then it's his choice, but as long as I'm here and he's here, he just has to give himself 100 per cent and do the right things.

"If there comes a time when he does not do it, then he will not play, but until today he has played every minute he could under me, and it will not change as long as he continues to do the right thing."