Birmingham City boss Aitor Karanka has revealed that he had hoped to secure a deal for Jake Clarke-Salter earlier in the window.

The centre-back only joined Blues towards the end of the deadline and it didn't seem a signing the squad needed considering they have looked strong defensively in the opening weeks.

However, speaking to Birmingham Live, Karanka explained how the new recruit will be key to his plans because of his ability on the ball and he also admitted that they had been trying to shift players on before bringing in Clarke-Salter.

"I am really pleased because he is going to give us a lot of options. He can play as a good central defender and I think it is another thing we are missing, to build from the back with the ball on the grass.

"We always had him on the radar because he was here, he is a good player and he has a very good future in front of him. It is true we needed to send players out – the players didn’t leave but the club made an effort to bring him here."

The 23-year-old, who spent last season at St. Andrew's, could be involved for the trip to Norwich City tomorrow night.

The verdict

This is a good insight from Karanka into what he expects from the player and fans will be encouraged that Clarke-Salter could be key to a more progressive style out from the back.

Whilst the new boss has done well overall, the early weeks have shown that Blues are struggling going forward and having a better build-up play can help create chances.

It's now down to the defender to force his way into the XI and it will be interesting to see if he plays a part at Carrow Road.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.