Kisnorbo earns contract talks
by Andy Mann
Patrick Kisnorbo's end-of-season form for Leicester City could earn him a new contract at the club.
The defender, who has returned to Australia to spend time with his family during the close-season, still has two years left on his current deal.
However, his agent Lou Sticca today said discussions have opened between the club and Kisnorbo over improved terms and a possible extension.
Kisnorbo was often outstanding in his first campaign at the Walkers Stadium, particularly in the last third of the season as City escaped relegation.
Relegated Birmingham have been heavily linked with a move for Kisnorbo, with manager Steve Bruce seeing the defender in the draw at Coventry. Everton and Blackburn have also been linked with him.
But Sticca said Kisnorbo, who has missed out on a place in the Australia World Cup squad, was “delighted” to be playing for City, while manager Robert Kelly sees the Aussie as a key part of his plans.
Sticca said: “Rob has made it very clear that he is not for sale and that Patrick is a valued player. They are looking to see what they can do to provide him with a better deal.
“Patrick is very happy playing under Rob and is delighted to be playing at Leicester City.
“If we can make that marriage even more attractive, if it's more long-term, then fantastic. There's no real urgency.
“It is great to know that the club thinks so highly of him.”
City boss Kelly said: “Patrick has still got two years left on his contract and is very much in the club's plans.”
Meanwhile, City defender Richard Stearman has been diagnosed with a small tear in the cartilage in his right knee.
The club today said the problem was not serious and were confident Stearman would be fit for the new season.
However, City's Young Player of the Year has been advised to take two weeks' rest to help clear up the injury.
Kelly said: “We have been advised that he needs a couple of weeks' complete rest. We are confident that it will be okay for the start of the season.”
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