As featured on NewsNow: Football news

Birmingham boss Eck cannot hide excitement after stunning Cup win

Birmingham City boss Alex McLeish couldn't hide his excitement after their Carling Cup semifinal victory over West Ham United.

Life-long City fan Craig Gardner scored the winner in extra-time.

McLeish said: "It was a really exciting moment for me when the final whistle went in realising what myself, my staff, the players and everyone has achieved.

"It was a magnificent second half and to walk a team out at Wembley will be one of the proudest moments of my career.

"The first half was a huff and puff job from us and they looked quite comfortable and Cole scored an amazing goal.

"I thought at half-time 'we are out of the cup, we have to make changes, change the tactics and approach.'

"Nikola Zigic had his best game for the club and was much more aggressive and he realises what it takes to be a success in England and that is the best I've seen him.

"He was almost unplayable. He was verging on that."

 It's all kicking off again! Click here for the No1 coverage of Birmingham City's winter market transfer news.

Video of the day:

About the author

Tribal Football Staff

×

Subscribe and go ad-free

For only $10 a year

  1. Go Ad-Free
  2. Faster site experience
  3. Support great writing
  4. Subscribe now
Launch Offer: 2 months free
×

Subscribe and go ad-free

For only $10 a year

Subscribe now
Launch Offer: 2 months free