An Interview with a Rival... Birmingham City

Editor-in-Chief Ryan Ingham got the chance to speak to Rob Wildey of football fan site Vital Birmingham ahead of tomorrow's fixture. Here's what was said;

How many years have you followed Birmingham City FC?

I've followed Birmingham for as long as I've followed football. My Dad is an avid Bluenose so I didn't really have much of a choice, not that I'd have it any other way.

Your favourite Birmingham players of all time?

I was always a big fan of Geoff Horsfield. His endeavour and attitude summarised everything this club is about. He was a leader of men and won many battles in his personal life too!

I've always been a stickler for a good defender too and we've had some good'uns in recent years. Kenny Cunningham and Matthew Upson formed an unbreakable partnership that was the heart and soul of our Premier League days.

What are your thoughts on the owners, the removal of Rowett and how Zola has done since taking over from him?

The owners were criticised for dismissing Rowett who was doing a decent job. But it's been a long time since an owner of Birmingham City invested money in the transfer market so, for that, they deserve credit.

Hiring Gianfranco Zola was, and still is, a controversial decision. He hasn't had the best of starts, picking up just two wins in 14 games. He's a likeable chap and I hope and pray he is a success given time.

Who are the most promising youngsters that have come into the team and are there any other youngsters that you expect to break into it?

We've been known to flog our youngsters in recent years when the financial waters were rocky. Nathan Redmond, Jack Butland, Jordon Mutch and Demarai Gray all came through the academy at Wast Hills and have since moved on.

Nowadays, we have a promising defender, Josh Dacres-Cogley, who is establishing himself as a first team player. Corey O'Keefe is a regular on the bench, hopefully he'll get more of a chance soon.

Memorable games vs Leeds at St Andrews?

It has to be the game in 2002, our first win in the Premier League. After going a goal down, goals from Damien Johnson and Paul Devlin won us the game. The atmosphere that day was electric.

Your two to be promoted automatically?

It has to be Brighton and Newcastle.

Playoff winners?

Leeds or Huddersfield

Three for the drop?

Rotherham, Wigan and Bristol City (or Wolves, hopefully)

Score and Scorers for Friday?

1-1... Adams for Birmingham, Wood for Leeds.

We'd like to thank Rob for taking the time to answer our questions and wish him and the Blues the best of luck for the season.

Make sure to check out Vital Birmingham for a similar interview with myself for Rob!

By Ryan Ingham