Football Season Guide

Birmingham City

In


Steven Caldwell (defender, Wigan), Marlon King (attacker, Coventry), Chris Burke (midfielder, Cardiff), Morgaro Gomis (midfielder, Dundee Utd), Michel (midfielder, Sporting Gijon), Adam Rooney (attacker, Inverness)

Out


Barry Ferguson (midfielder, Blackpool), Kevin Phillips (attacker, Blackpool), Roger Johnson (defender, Wolves), Lee Bowyer (midfielder, Ipswich), Craig Gardner (midfielder, Sunderland)

It’s been a trying summer for Birmingham City and their supporters. An unexpected relegation to the Championship was followed by the departure of many Alex McGleish to bitter rivals Aston Villa. Barry Ferguson and Roger Johnson are big name departures while goalkeeper Ben Foster is rumoured to be on his way soon. The core of the side appears to have gone but the Blues have brought in former Newcastle boss Chris Hughton as their new manager and that appears to be an inspired choice. Marlon King and Chris Burke are proven players at this level while Michel adds flair to the side. A testing start to the season awaits and there is a big question whether the new players – and managerial style can gel quickly.

Target


Their fans will expect nothing less than a top six position – but life is unlikely to be easy initially.