Birmingham City boss Alex McLeish has denied that he fell out with the club board after the signing of Giovanny Espinoza this week. It was rumoured the player signed without McLeish's permission or consultation.

McLeish said: "The board have given me great backing so far so I'm dismayed by claims suggesting I am not happy with the signing of Espinoza.

"The Espinoza deal made good financial sense for the club and although he's a rookie in English terms, he has vast international experience and it will be up to the centre-backs to compete as I attempt to build a solid spine.

"There are absolutely no problems with the board, I'm happy with all the signings and happy with the support I've had from them and to suggest otherwise is ridiculous.

"I am also thankful that the board have indicated they will support me further before the season begins as we build the club for the Premier League."