12-1-10: Birmingham have released Ecuador international defender Giovanny Espinoza after a unsuccessful six months at St Andrews. The 32-year-old was one of Alex McLeish's first signings of the summer as the Blues prepared for a relegation battle on their return to the Premier League. However, the West Midlands outfit have exceeded expectations since being promoted from the Championship and are flying high in eighth position in the table, largely through a resolute defence which has conceded just 19 goals - the third best in the division. But Espinoza, who signed from Barcelona Sporting Club in Ecuador, has played no part in City's league success after making just two appearances this term, both coming in the Carling Cup. And the Blues have announced the Ecuadorian's two-year contract has been "cancelled by mutual consent" and the defender is expected to return to his homeland after an uninspiring spell in England.