Alex McLeish has dismissed newspaper claims he is unhappy with the signing of defender Geovanny Espinoza.

And the Blues manager has thrown his backing behind the club`s board as he prepares for the new Barclays Premier League campaign.

"The board have given me great backing so far so I'm dismayed by claims suggesting I am not happy with the signing of Espinoza," he said.

"The Espinoza deal made good financial sense for the club and although he's a rookie in English terms, he has vast international experience and it will be up to the centre backs to compete as I attempt to build a solid spine.

"There are absolutely no problems with the board, I'm happy with all the signings and happy with the support I've had from them and to suggest otherwise is ridiculous.

"I am also thankful that the board have indicated they will support me further before the season begins as we build the club for the Premier League."