Alex McLeish calls for money to be spent so Birmingham can cope with demands of European football

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    By Alex Richards

    28 Feb 2011 16:52:00

    Carling Cup: Alex McLeish, Arsenal v Birmingham City

    Carling Cup: Alex McLeish, Arsenal v Birmingham City

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    Birmingham City boss Alex McLeish says that his side must strengthen to cope with the demands of a Europa League campaign following their success in the League Cup.

    Goals from Nikola Zigic, a £6 million signing from Valencia in the summer, and on-loan Rubin Kazan striker Obafemi Martins, gave the Blues a surprise 2-1 win over Arsenal at Wembley on Sunday.

    Although Birmingham are still far from safe in the Premier League – they are a mere two points clear of 18th place West Ham albeit with two games in hand – McLeish believes he’ll need additional players to improve the squad to compete in Europe.

    “Initially I had forgotten we were in Europe because in Scotland you don’t get into Europe after winning the League Cup,” McLeish told reporters.

    “We are so proud to win the cup and get into Europe.

    “But it’s not without its problems in terms of needing a strong squad to do that.

    “We have to try and develop the squad further. We will need to strengthen.”

    McLeish was also full of praise for his giant target-man Zigic, who he believes has improved during his time in the Midlands.

    “Arsenal were very apprehensive of the big fellow,” continued McLeish.

    “I think we’ve helped him improve his game though he might not agree when he’s got to try and head every ball that’s kicked up to him.

    “It isn’t like the cultured football he was used to in Europe.

    “But he’s certainly added something to his game that will benefit the Serbian national team.”

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    Alex McLeish calls for money to be spent so Birmingham can cope with demands of European football