Phil Neumann is 'completely focused' on Birmingham City and intends to use his peak years to help the club realise its ambitions, despite the arrival of new signing Dael Fry.
Neumann's first season at St Andrew's
The German centre-back enjoyed a decent first season in Royal Blue following his switch from Hannover 96 last year. He was Christoph Klarer's most regular partner in defence and finished the season strongly to win over manager Chris Davies. However, Blues have signed Dael Fry this summer, casting doubt on whether Neumann will begin the season as first choice.
Player's commitment to the club
Despite Fry's presence, Neumann is not looking to leave. He told BILD: 'I feel very comfortable in Birmingham and am completely focused on the new season. Of course, in the long term, I want to get the most out of my career. Playing in Germany again someday would certainly be nice. The Bundesliga has always been a dream of mine. But right now, my full focus is on Birmingham and our goals.'
Neumann added: 'I think you reach a really good age to be a centre-back now. You have experience, but you still feel physically in top shape. I want to make the most of the best phase of my career, have a really strong season, and then see where it leads.'
Promotion challenge ahead
The 29-year-old was signed to help Blues reach the Premier League, and that goal remains. However, there is a realisation internally that promotion will be extremely difficult this coming season, with West Ham and Wolverhampton Wanderers clear favourites to return to the top flight. Neumann acknowledged: 'You can tell something big is happening here. The fans are incredibly passionate about the club. The stadium was practically always sold out, and there are even plans to build a new stadium in the long term. The ultimate goal is clearly the Premier League – and we want to lay the foundation for that this season.'
