Pennant Loan Deal Hitch

Last updated : 26 January 2005 By Brian Cartlidge

It was thought that the England Under 21 international had signed a season long loan deal at St Andrew's but the club have confirmed that despite all parties wanting the loan deal to happen circumstances at this present time have meant that the deal cannot be concluded yet.

A statement on the Blues official website www.bcfc.com reads: "To date a loan agreement has not been signed for Jermaine Pennant to join Birmingham City Football Club.

"The position is presently on hold and will be reviewed shortly.

"Whilst Birmingham City wants to loan Jermaine Pennant and both Arsenal Football Club and the player wish this to happen, Jermaine Pennant's present circumstances are such that a loan agreement cannot be signed at the present time.

"Birmingham City Football Club hopes that matters can be concluded satisfactorily before the transfer window closes, and the position should become clearer over the next few days."

Pennant was reportedly arrested early on Sunday morning on suspicion of a drink/driving offence.