Stan could have joined Leeds

Last updated : 05 February 2003 By Brian Cartlidge
Lazaridis, who is out of contract at St. Andrew's at the end of the season, said Leeds wanted him in a swap deal for defender Michael Duberry and that he had been tempted by the offer.

Stan told Blues' official website: "I am happy to be at this club but the issue went further than that because I am looking at my career and want to stay in England for another couple of years.

"There was an opportunity to go to Leeds who are a big club and I have played under Terry Venables before.

"So the whole thing was fitting but, to be honest, if Birmingham decide at the end of the season that they want me to stay then there isn't an issue.

"It is only if they are going to release me then it would be a good move for me.

"Obviously the transfer window is closed now but at that time, they were trying to do a swap deal with me and Michael Duberry."