F&C Investments has extended its shirt sponsorship of second-tier English soccer club Birmingham City for another two years. The two parties have worked together since 2007.

The Blues, who were relegated from the Premier League last year and suffered the embarrassment of a 5-1 loss to local rivals Aston Villa, currently sit second in The Championship, the second-tier of English soccer, behind another local rival, Wolverhampton Wanderers. A first or second place finish would secure Birmingham promotion back to the Premier League, while third to sixth would see them enter the promotion play-offs.

"We are absolutely delighted to maintain F&C Investments as our principal sponsor for a further two years," said Karren Brady, the club's managing director. "The deal underlines the excellent relationship we have forged together over the last few years and represents F&C's faith in the Birmingham City brand. Over the next two years we can continue to work together and build upon our existing relationship with F&C Investments to ensure our continued development both on and off the field."

John Yule, head of UK retail at F&C, said: "We are delighted to renew our sponsorship agreement with Birmingham City FC. Working with the Blues has helped raise our profile in the midlands and throughout the UK, through community initiatives, client hospitality and the high profile nature of top flight football. We are committed to growing the F&C brand and believe that working with Birmingham City FC will bring continued success on and off the field."