Birmingham have failed in an attempt to bring Martin Jol to St Andrews as a replacement for former manager Steve Bruce. The Blues are on the lookout for a new boss following Bruce's departure to Wigan and Birmingham admit they have been in contact with Jol.
However, Jol - who was sacked by Tottenham in October - is said to have turned Birmingham co-owner David Sullivan down because he feels he needs a break before returning to management.
"We did speak to Martin Jol over the weekend," Sullivan said in the Guardian.
Pedigree"Martin thanked us for our interest but said it was too early for him to consider coming back into football such a short time after leaving Spurs.
"That is the type of coach we are looking at, someone with a pedigree that will excite the supporters."
Sullivan, though, remains confident Birmingham - who are also the subject of an ongoing takeover bid from Carson Yeung - will soon appoint a successor for Bruce.
"The usual suspects will be on everyone's lips but this could be a fresh start for Birmingham City," added Sullivan.
Respect"We are looking at candidates at a certain level. It is a difficult one to try and get someone in who the dressing room will respect.
"Do you take a chance on an unproven coach at this level with a group of young players who will need guidance and will be looking for inspiration?
"Or do you go for a more experienced voice, someone respected in the world of football?"
Sky Sports I'm disappointed they let Bruce talk to Wigan, it was great with them having an idiot manager. It's a good job a decent manager like Jol turned them down, he could do much better than a relegation battle team anyway.
Beginner's Luck. 
I never thought u'd be in it, but u made it !