Liam Ridgewell says new Birmingham City boss Alex McLeish has already lifted the players.

"I think he's a great manager and it's a great shout to get him," said the centre-half.

"All the players are happy that he's here, and bringing in his backroom staff as well. I'm sure he will go from strength to strength and it's good to finally have a manager installed."

McLeish's meticulous preparation and encouragement of the players has already made an impact.

"There's a freshness," said Ridgewell. "Players talk about freshness when a new manager comes in, it just brings something different to the team.

"We went out there at Spurs and showed that. It's hard to put my finger on exactly how it's changed. It's that freshness and probably a bit of confidence to some of the other players. I think that helps the club no end.

"And he's just said to go out there with a bit of confidence, a bit of belief and play your game, do what you do."