He told the club’s website: “I’ve experienced championship races and relegation battles in my career, so I’m no stranger to this kind of problem.
“I had a similar situation when I joined Birmingham four years ago, but then I was very much a different player at a different stage in my career, when it was all about trying to prove myself at the top level.
“I like to think that I’ve done that now. I’ve come here to get better and better, and hopefully enjoy the best years of my career. Physically and mentally, I am in the best shape of my life and will continue to progress.
“I feel that I’m now coming closer and closer to where I want to be personally. Obviously you can never stop learning or improving, but the experiences I’ve had in football mean that I feel 100% ready for this challenge.
“A lot of people will look at the negative side, with the position the team are currently in, but I like to look at the positive side.
“It is a club with great history and tradition, and clearly has the backing and ambition now to become one of the biggest in the Premiership.
“I believe that is a realistic target over the next two or three years and I am looking forward to the exciting challenge that is in front of me now.”
