Taylor Content At Playing Second Fiddle

Last updated : 12 March 2010 By Brian Cartlidge

Taylor has made just one Premier League appearance for Blues this season such has been the form of Hart, who is being widely tipped to earn a place in Fabio Capello's England squad for this summer's World Cup Finlas in South Africa.

"It makes it slightly easier to accept not being in the side when the guy in your position is doing so well," Taylor has said.

"It's so frustrating not playing. But Joe, through his performances, is making it impossible for the manager to overlook him.

"There's certainly no room for me knocking on the manager's door at the moment, that's for sure.

"Joe has done exceptionally well and definitely deserves his chance with England. He deserves to be pushing on the door for the World Cup. He's been fantastic for us.

"We know Fabio Capello and Ray Clemence have been to watch him a number of times and he has done exceptionally well.

"He has not put a foot wrong. He is doing everything he can."

The 38-year-old Northern Ireland international keeper has also reiterated his desire to extend his contract with Blues as his current deal at St Andrews expires in the summer and manager Alex McLeish has spoken of his intent to try and keep Taylor at the club.

"My contract is up for renewal and it's very nice of the manager to say kind words about me which I'm very glad to hear. I am fit and well," he said

"We'll sit down and talk about a new deal at some stage.

"I'm very settled at Birmingham. I've been here for many years and my kids are settled at school."