Brother of Birmingham's Palacios kidnapped in Honduras

LONDON, Oct 31 (Reuters) Premier League Birmingham City have given midfielder Wilson Palacios permission to return home to Honduras after his 15-year-old brother was kidnapped.

''The matter is being dealt with capably by the Honduran police therefore Wilson is staying in the UK in the hope that his brother Edwin Rene will be returned to his family soon,'' a club statement said.

''Wilson has the club's permission to return back to Honduras at any time, if he so wishes.

''Our thoughts are with Wilson and his family, and everyone at the club is hoping for Edwin's speedy and safe return.'' Honduras international Palacios, 23, joined Birmingham onloan from Honduran club Olimpia in August but there is a deal in place to make the move permanent.

He has made three league appearances this season.

REUTERS AM ND2146