Phil Neumann has dismissed speculation surrounding his future at Birmingham City, asserting his commitment to the club despite rumours linking him with moves elsewhere.
Since joining Birmingham City a year ago, Neumann, 29, has been the subject of transfer talk involving Premier League newcomers Hull City and a potential return to Germany with Borussia Mönchengladbach. However, he remains a key figure in manager Chris Davies' plans.
Neumann started in Birmingham’s Championship opener against Sheffield United on Saturday, contributing to a clean sheet in the 0-0 draw, continuing the club’s solid defensive form on the road.
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When questioned about the reported interest from other clubs, Neumann, who still has two years left on his contract, remarked: “It’s not on me, my agent is getting these calls but I don’t care. My focus is on Birmingham and to do well this season. That’s what we did in the last two games and now we want to secure our first league win next week in a home game.”
Manager Chris Davies experimented with different centre-back pairings throughout last season before settling on Neumann alongside captain Christoph Klarer during the final stretch. Despite the club signing experienced defender Dael Fry from Middlesbrough in the summer, Davies has maintained faith in Neumann’s abilities and current form.
On his personal development, Neumann commented: “To get more physical, as you can see with the strikers it’s all about fighting and winning the duels. I would say I’ve been getting accustomed to it over time and feeling better. I’m just focusing on myself. Last season we had a lot of centre-halves and there were times when I haven’t played. I’m concentrating on playing my game, and in the end, the gaffer will decide the starting XI.”