Birmingham City boss Alex McLeish insists only time will tell whether the club’s pre-season tour of China can be deemed a success.

England will face Spain in the semis of the UEFA European Under-19 Championships after a last-gasp equaliser from Matt Phillips earned them a draw against hosts France.

Blues boss Alex McLeish has revealed he expects to finalise the terms of his new contract when he returns from China.

Garry O’Connor will fight for his place in the Birmingham City starting line-up despite seeing Nikola Zigic drafted in by Alex McLeish over the summer.

Garry O’Connor says he is determined to win a new longer deal with Birmingham and his form in pre-season won’t be harming his chances.

Notts County manager Craig Short has revealed the club are close to completing the signing of former Birmingham and Huddersfield defender Krystian Pearce.

Birmingham City beat Beijing
Guoan 1-0 in a friendly on Wednesday but even the splendour of
the Bird’s Nest could not distract manager Alex McLeish from the
task that lies ahead — ensuring Premier League survival.

Garry O’Connor was Birmingham’s match-winner for the second match in succession on their tour of the Far East.

Ricky Sbragia’s decision to reject City’s advances may be a blessing in disguise claims Alex McLeish following Peter Grant’s arrival.

LIAM Ridgewell has praised Carson Yeung for the progress he’s making with brand Birmingham City in China.