Jeff Kenna has admitted he will "have to give some thought to other offers that come in" as Birmingham have decided to delay offering him a new contract until they are guaranteed their Premiership status.
Kenna (33), whose current deal expires in the summer, understands the Blues' stance given the massive financial difference between playing in the top flight and playing in Division One.
But the former Republic of Ireland defender, who scored the winning goal against Southampton on Saturday, knows he also has to look after his own interests.
Kenna said: "I obviously want the contract sorted out sooner rather than later - but the later the club leave things, it obviously leaves it open for me in the summer if something else comes up.
"It is entirely in the club's hands. It is big business being in the Premiership and if you have given players big contracts and then drop out, it is difficult.
"I can fully understand that. I can see where the club are coming from but the other side of the coin is that I've got to look after myself. If someone else comes in for me in the meantime, I will have to give it some thought."
He said: "Age is not an issue with me. Possibly I have lost a yard of pace but I'm fit. I haven't been injured since I've been here. I'm 33 but I can't help my age. I go out every week, I give my best. Some weeks it's great, some weeks it's not."