Improved Defender Bid Rejected

Last updated : 15 January 2008 By Brian Cartlidge

Blues had an estimated £1million bid for the Scotland international left-back rejected by Hibs last week and now a £1.5 million offer has also said to have been turned down.

Hibs have just made former Wolves striker Mixu Paatelainen their new manager and he has said he does not want to lose Murphy who is currently recovering from a hamstring injury.

"As soon as he gets fit I am hoping to involve him," Paatelainen has said.

"I cannot wait because he is a very good player and I would hope to have him ready for Hearts on Saturday.

"It doesn't surprise me other clubs are interested in David because he is a good, good player.

"It's not entirely in my hands, but I want to keep the best players at the club, to have as competitive a team as possible."