Young goalkeeper Jack Butland has outlined his determination to become Birmingham City's new number one next season.

In a welcome boost for the club, teenager insisted his sole focus was on establishing himself between the sticks.

As West Bromwich Albion prepare to ramp up their interest in manager Chris Hughton and financial storm clouds continue to gather over St Andrew's, a critical - and worrying - few weeks lay ahead for Blues.

But 19-year-old Butland provided Blues with some cheer and cause for optimism.

Manchester United and Arsenal are said to be eyeing up Butland seriously, and several more Premier League clubs scouted him regularly during his season-long loan to Cheltenham Town.

But Butland has his sights on making his mark at Blues.

"That's the target: I want to be the number one, I want to be playing," he said.

"Hopefully this season I have done enough and shown enough and what have you to convince the manager.

"Yes, it is ultimately down to me, I know that. I am confident in my ability.

"I can make the decision as hard or as easy as possible, depending on how I play, for Chris Hughton.

"I hope I have a good pre-season, get in the best possible shape, and make it impossible for him not to pick me.