Andrew Part of Gary’s Shindig

Andrew Shinnie still has a future at Birmingham City, says manager Gary Rowett. The 27 year-old was loaned out to Rotherham United last season in an attempt to get some game time under his belt.

But soon after joining the Millers, a managerial change occurred with Neil Warnock replacing Neil Redfearn at the New York Stadium resulting in a lack of opportunities for Shinnie. Now back at Blues, the Scot will benefit from the departure of Jon Toral who returns to his parent club, Arsenal.

Shinnie is likely to battle it out with Diego Fabbrini for the number ten role. Blues paid their biggest transfer fee in five years when they signed Fabbrini from Watford for a reported £1.5m and the transfer was conducted with an eye on next season.

Shinnie will more than likely be the main competitor to Fabbrini`s place in the team.

Rowett told bcfc.com- Shinns will come back next season and be part of what we`re trying to do. He`s been a great lad for us when he`s been here and he`s been an excellent player. He`s under contract and he`ll come back next season and he`ll be our player. There is no real thought of him going anywhere else in the summer.’