Savage to appeal against fine

Savage used the referee's toilet without permission

Birmingham midfielder Robbie Savage has lodged an appeal with the Football Association over the £10,000 fine handed out to him for using a referee's toilet.

Savage was found guilty of improper conduct after the incident, which occurred last season when the Welsh international was a Leicester player.

Bruce defends Savage

The 27-year-old went into referee Graham Poll's dressing room before a Premiership encounter with Aston Villa at Filbert Street in April and used the toilet without permission.

At the time, Savage insisted that he was suffering with an upset stomach and had no choice.

But his strategy was unsuccessful and in addition to the fine, Savage was also reprimanded, warned as to his future conduct and told he must pay the costs of the hearing.

The 27-year-old had already been fined two-weeks wages by then-club Leicester.

FA spokesman Adrian Bevington said: "I can confirm Robbie Savage has lodged an appeal after being found guilty and subsequently fined of a misconduct charge. The appeal will be heard in due course on a date to be decided."

Vickers boost

Meanwhile, Birmingham skipper Steve Vickers is back in full training after missing the opening part of the Premiership campaign following knee surgery.

The 34-year-old central defender underwent the operation in June but has made good progress and is now eyeing a reserve team comeback in the near future.