Much-maligned defender Martin Taylor could be on his way out of Birmingham City.Taylor, who enjoyed an impressive loan spell at Carrow Road this season, has been vilified in certain quarters after the red-card tackle which left Arsenal striker Eduardo with a compound fracture of the left tibia and a dislocated ankle.

Much-maligned defender Martin Taylor could be on his way out of Birmingham City.

Taylor, who enjoyed an impressive loan spell at Carrow Road this season, has been vilified in certain quarters after the red-card tackle which left Arsenal striker Eduardo with a compound fracture of the left tibia and a dislocated ankle.

And Birmingham boss Alex McLeish admits the episode may be affecting Taylor's career.

McLeish said: “If I thought it was a problem, I'd have to consider it.

“He's ready, fitness-wise. He's only played one reserve game in four weeks but he's ready to play. I've got to consider whether it significantly improves the team.

“Our centre halves are much of a muchness. I don't think one's been more outstanding than another, they're all justifiably fighting for a spot.”

Taylor played in last week's reserve game against Tottenham and McLeish added: “If he was tentative at all, I'd have to consider that. Maybe he needs another reserve game for us to make a judgment.”