McLeish dismisses ‘top six’ finish

(GSM) – Alex McLeish has dismissed suggestions that Birmingham City could become an established top-six club in the Premier League.

After a ninth place finish last term, the Blues boss is aware that expectation levels have risen amongst supporters.

But he has echoed the thoughts of former City manager Trevor Francis, who feels a top-six berth is an unrealistic aspiration.

McLeish said: “It is ludicrous to suggest that. It is incredible that some people think that. But my experiences in the game tell me it is nigh on impossible. We can all dream and have ambition but there are about eight teams in there who, over a length of the season, will always come to the fore.

“Then the rest are fighting for the other places. If we come ninth again, it will be phenomenal. I would judge that even better than last season. Finishing in the top 17 is our priority again.”