McLeish wary of second season

Birmingham manager looking to build on stunning season

Last updated: 7th May 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

McLeish wary of second season

McLeish: Looking ahead

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Alex McLeish has admitted that he faces a 'huge challenge' to build on Birmingham's achievements this season.

Blues were tipped to struggle after winning promotion 12 months ago but they have enjoyed a stunning first campaign back in the Premier League and are set to finish in the top half.

McLeish accepts that expectations will now rise, while other clubs will also be determined to mount stronger challenges next term.

He said: "I am only too aware how things can turn in football. I have to keep my focus on maintaining the form Birmingham have shown this season into next season.

"This is going to be a huge challenge. Everyone else will be trying to improve their squads and teams who were expected to finish higher will certainly be big threats.

"We have got to try and keep up with them and try and bring in more quality to augment the squad. Often the second season syndrome can be a problem for clubs.

"We are aware of all that and the fact that these guys have turned up for work every week this season means that they have to do it again next season."

Characters

McLeish has a number of veterans at his disposal but he is confident the likes of Barry Ferguson, Lee Bowyer and Stephen Carr can keep performing to a high level.

"The big characters in the game who perennially win the Player of the Year trophies and the consistency trophies are the guys who do it year in and year out," he explained.

"Here at Birmingham, Barry Ferguson, Lee Bowyer and Stevie Carr are great examples and great inspiration for the younger players who want to do well in the game.

"These three players have the legs to go again - no doubt about it. They have shown that this season.

Outstanding

"Ferguson came from Scotland after a difficult last few months at Rangers and he has been truly outstanding.

"Lee Bowyer has scored six goals this season. He has had chances in every game since but he is looking for that elusive seventh goal.

"Stevie Carr coming out of retirement to perform the way he has performed, what can I say about that?

"The challenge for these guys is to maintain that form because they know if they come off the pedal they will be viewed as one season wonders.

"But all I can say about all the players is that every expectation level that has been put in front of them this season they have risen to the challenge.

"I will be asking them to do it next season and I believe the characters are in the side which will enable them to do it.

"I did expect to do well this season but I thought we punched above our weight to have done what we have done this season."