In brief: Pre-Birmingham City press conference

City's head coach answered questions from the local and national press along with the German defender.

Here's what they had to say:

LEE JOHNSON

- Johnson said he was excited to see new signing Niclas Eliasson train with City for the first time today, adding it will be interesting how quickly he adapts to English football

- City are waiting on international clearance for Eliasson and do not yet know whether or not he will be available to face Birmingham

- Johnson confirms City still have a couple of bids on the table for other players, but is reluctant to “flood the squad”

- Johnson reveals Gustav Engvall will be returning to Sweden on loan

- Milan Djuric and Matty Taylor are on their way back from injury, but Saturday comes too soon for the pair

- "I felt it was better for the team that I left Aden out. It doesn't mean he's going or the door is closed,” said Johnson of Aden Flint’s absence from last night’s Carabao Cup win

- The head coach confirms Flint did not refuse to play against Plymouth Argyle

- Two solo bids have come in for Flint from Birmingham, but neither matched City’s valuation

- City boss sees Birmingham game as a useful barometer of progress after two defeats to Blues last season