Birmingham have confirmed they have triggered an option in Maikel Kieftenbeld's contract that will extend his stay at the club for another year.

That comes days after the Dutch midfielder was ruled out for up to nine months with a serious knee ligament injury picked up in the victory over Leeds on Saturday.

The 28-year-old has been an integral part of Garry Monk's plans this season, featuring 36 times in the league and impressing in his defensive midfield role.

And, the club have decided to reward him with an extra year despite the awful injury, with Monk telling the official site that it's important they support the midfielder, with his previous deal up in the summer of 2020.

"That’s something we wanted to do and the Club wanted to do, have those discussions. We feel it’s the right thing to do. And it’s about creating the right environment for these players, that togetherness and that spirit.

[ad_pod ]

"We look after each other, from the terraces to the team."

Kieftenbeld is sure to return to a Blues side that are still in the second-tier with four points from their past two games giving Monk's men a six-point cushion over the relegation zone.

The Verdict

This is a great gesture from Birmingham and it's sure to be appreciated by the player.

In today's game clubs often see things as a business so it's nice to see Blues have actually made a decision that isn't all about money.

It's now down to Kieftenbeld to begin his long road to recovery and focus on playing a part sometime next season.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.