Birmingham City have failed in an attempt to bring in Martin Jol to replace Steve Bruce as manager but are confident they can appoint a long-term replacement despite the uncertainty over the club's proposed takeover.

Jol, sacked by Tottenham Hotspur last month, rejected Birmingham's overtures, citing the need to take a break but Blues co-owner David Sullivan believes that a manager of similar status is not beyond the club's reach.

Wigan chairman Dave Whelan said he was "delighted" Bruce had joined the Latics and confirmed that Birmingham would receive over €4 million in compensation.