Blues cool interest in Scotland international

Birmingham have cooled their interest in signing Derby midfielder Stephen Pearson because of a problem over his fitness.

Pearson held talks with Birmingham manager Alex McLeish last week and the Scotland international looked set for a £575,000 switch to St Andrews after agreeing personal terms.

But Pearson is currently suffering with a groin injury and the Blues are apparently unprepared to press ahead with any deal until the midfielder has fully recovered and proved his fitness.