Taylor snubs Liverpool for Blues

Birmingham keeper Maik Taylor admits he gave 'serious consideration' to an
offer from Liverpool before agreeing a two-year deal at St Andrews.

The Northern Ireland international has confirmed reports that Rafa Benitez
showed strong interest in his services as the Liverpool manager searches
for reliable back up to Jose Reina.

However, with Scott Carson returning to Anfield following his loan spell
with Aston Villa, Taylor insists he always wanted to stay with Championship
outfit Birmingham in order to secure regular first-team football.

"With an offer on the table from the club (Birmingham), it was always going
to be the case that I would stay really," Taylor told the Blues' official
website.

"It was flattering that Liverpool showed a lot of interest and of course I
gave it serious consideration.

"Liverpool could offer the UEFA Champions League and everything else, but
it would have been a situation as a No.2 and a year's contract as well.

"Scott Carson has gone back there now as well. There was talk of him going
to Villa after his loan, but that has not materialised.

"I still have a big desire to play and, as long as I keep my form and
fitness, that's more likely here (Birmingham)."

And having agreed to stay with Birmingham, Taylor is optimistic the club
can return to the Premier League at the first attempt following their
relegation last season.

"I enjoy playing for Birmingham and although, obviously, it was
tremendously disappointing to get relegated, I am really optimistic about
the future," added Taylor.

"We're going into an extremely difficult division, but definitely we will
be up for the challenge and I'm sure we won't be far away."

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