Gold wants to take Birmingham onwards and upwards

The Blues hope to become tenants in a city council owned multi-purpose stadium at Saltley.

But any move depends on the city council granting a licence for a casino which would form part of the complex.

Gold said: "If we are to move to the next level, we must redevelop St Andrews, or more ideally move into a new stadium."

Las Vegas Sands have agreed to fund the complex if they obtain a licence but the city council are also considering an alternative site at the National Exhibition Centre.

That would scupper Birmingham's hopes and leave them with the less attractive alternative of developing St Andrews.

Gold said: "It's vital we pursue that dream of a new stadium. It's an opportunity for the city of Birmingham and Birmingham City FC which right now is looking for a new stadium.

"Manchester City have the City of Manchester stadium, we need a City of Birmingham stadium.

Birmingham's alternative is to develop St Andrews

"Here is a wonderful opportunity for everyone concerned. It comes around once in a lifetime and I urge the council and people of Birmingham to grasp this nettle and go ahead.

"You have a 55-acre site which is derelict and crying out for regeneration and it's only a mile away from St Andrews.

"How many football clubs and local councils have this opportunity where it all fits perfectly together?

"The alternative site at the NEC is 10 miles out of Birmingham, this one is in the centre.

"It would not just be for Birmingham City FC but for many other sports. We would become tenants but the council would own the stadium for free."

The club and Las Vegas Sands will make a full presentation to the city council on 28 October.

Gold warned: "There's only so long you can wait because one of the alternatives is to redevelop the main stand at St Andrews.