Birmingham City boss Alex McLeish says a deeper squad is needed if his players are to realise their potential.

Former Aberdeen captain Eck hints some of his players have been cruising this season because of the lack of competition inside his squad.

He said: "The only thing I was ever really scared of when I played professional football was the guy breathing down my neck wanting to take my place.

"That's what drove me forward, not Sir Alex (Ferguson) giving me a hard time.

"It was the fact I had competition and my place could be taken at any minute.

"That fear, which can be a positive, is starting to come for us.

"So, it keeps the players on their toes and they know if they do come back into the team they have to play well."