Former Everton, Wrexham, Norwich City and Wolves star announces Birmingham City transfer exit

John Ruddy has turned down Birmingham City's offer of a new contract and will depart the club this summer.

The 37-year-old along with Lukas Jutkiewicz was offered terms to remain at St Andrew's, but with his contract expiring at the end of this week, he has opted to leave Blues.

Ruddy has attracted transfer interest from both Blackburn Rovers and Charlton Athletic. Earlier this month it was reported that the Addicks wanted to hold transfer talks with the one-time England international.

He was Birmingham's first choice goalkeeper under John Eustace and then the various managers that followed after his departure in October. In the two years he spent with the club, he made 89 appearances and kept 25 clean sheets.

“I would just like to say thank you,” began Ruddy in a social media post on Instagram as he confirmed his departure.

“Thank you to all of you bluenoses that made me and my family feel so welcome at your wonderful club over the last two years.

“It didn’t end as any of us wanted to but I hope the one thing that you can say about me was I gave everything every time I pulled the shirt on. Sometimes it was enough and other times it wasn’t to be but it was a genuine privilege to play for your club.

“I wish the players, staff and fans nothing but success and as I’ve said previously I believe the club will get to where they want and should be!

“Good luck and thank you again. John and family.”

At the age of 37, Ruddy is now on the hunt for the 14th club of his career. Norwich City is where he has spent most of his time, appearing 242 times for the Canaries. Ruddy also helped Wolves get promoted to the Premier League in 2018 and was their back-up goalkeeper in the top flight.

The other teams that he played for in his career include Cambridge United, Motherwell, Stockport County and Crewe Alexandra. Ruddy also made one appearance for Everton and had brief stints with Bristol City, Rushden & Diamonds, Chester City, Wrexham and Walsall.