Birmingham manager Steve Bruce believes the capture of midfielder Muzzy Izzet shows the St Andrews club are now well established as a Premier League club.
Bruce captured Izzet on a three-year deal on the same day striker Stern John penned a new one-year contract.
And the Blues boss has hailed the signing of the Leicester midfielder on a free transfer following the Walkers Stadium side's relegation as a major coup.
"We're absolutely delighted that Muzzy Izzet has chosen to make the move to Birmingham," said Bruce.
"I understand that a number of other Premiership teams were keen to get him on board, so it is testament to the way this club is progressing and the ambition we have shown that he has signed a three-year deal," Bruce told the
club website, www.bcfc.com.
"He is a top-class player who became available at the end of last season, and with the backing we received from the board we were able to go for him.
"He is a talented player who I believe will undoubtedly strengthen the team."
Bruce is also looking for Izzet to increase his team's goal threat from midfield.
"As well as being a first-class passer of the ball and tackler, Muzzy has an excellent goalscoring record for a midfielder, which is an area that we know we need to improve on.
"Additionally he has the ability to provide excellent crosses and create goalscoring opportunities for strikers."
London-born Izzet began his career at Chelsea, before joining Leicester in 1996 for £800,000 and proved to be an integral member of Micky Adams' first team, leading the Premier League for the number of goal assists last season.
Izzet, who scored 47 goals in 342 games for the Foxes, will join up with former team-mate Robbie savage at St Andrews.
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