Eck hoping to keep Jiranek

Last updated : 04 March 2011 By Brian Cartlidge

The Czech international joined Blues on a 12-month deal from Spartak Moscow last summer and has impressed in recent weeks having replaced the injured Scott Dann in the heart of the Blues defence.

When asked if he would like Jiranek to extend his stay, McLeish told Press Association Sport: "Yes, there is no door closed.

"There is a little bit of uncertainty in terms of the league (staying up). We don't know what is going to happen.

"I can't guarantee anything but we'd like to believe we can talk to Martin about a future in the Premier League.

"He has adapted really well and put in some great tackles during the Carling Cup final."

McLeish added: "My first fear was him coping with the aerial side because it is very alien to foreign centre-halves.

"But he has shown some tremendous experience particularly in what could have been some serious situations for us.

"He has stepped in for us with some marvellously timed tackles and positioning."