Ferguson Is No Flop Says Boss

Birmingham manager Alex McLeish insists midfielder Barry Ferguson was not a flop during his first spell with Blackburn.

Since Ferguson has arrived at St Andrews, McLeish has been happy with what he has seen so far and is quick to point out that the last time Ferguson was in the Premier League with Rovers, he had a long spell out with injuries.

But McLeish is adamant Ferguson made a positive impact when he was able to play for Blackburn and the boss can see no reason why the player cannot reproduce that same form.

McLeish said: 'People say Barry had a rough time at Blackburn but I disagree with that.

'He had an horrific knee injury but, when he came back to full fitness, he was a fantastic player in the Rovers midfield.

'The big thing is the jury is still out on whether he can be a Premier League player because he didn't stay long enough at Blackburn.

'But I know from speaking to Walter Smith at the time, that he was getting fantastic reports about Barry Ferguson's performances at Blackburn.

'I know people said he was soon back up in Scotland because he hadn't done very well but that is nonsense.'

McLeish added: 'Barry has settled in quickly at Birmingham and played his part and, once he has got his top fitness and sharpness, I know he will be a big asset for us.

'You can see the way the lad controls the ball. He will take the ball in tight areas and manage to retain it.

'Others might not be as comfortable with that and Barry has to be careful choosing his passes and to not put some of our players into uncomfortable positions.

'But you've seen in the last two or three games that he is choosing his passes very carefully and keeping much valued possession.'

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