New Blues midfielder Lee Carsley is under no illusions that his side will need to be physically up for it if they are to return to the Premier League at the first time of asking.
The Birmingham-born 34-year old, signed from Everton in the summer, will play outside of the Premier League for the first time since 2001 this season, for a side predicted by many to be favourites for the title.
A 46-game league season, compared to the Premier League’s 38, is just one example of the physical endurance and strength that will be required of Alex McLeish’s side next season. Carsley knows strength will be required.
He said: “We saw this season how competitive it is, with so many of the teams in with a chance of automatic promotion and the play-offs. If you think it is a division of total soccer that you can play your way out of, then you’re going to find it very, very tough.
“That’s not to say you can’t play football, West Brom have shown that. But every team seems to be big, strong and hungry. You have to be able to match the physicality as well - it’s more physical than the Premier League.”
One Comment
Good job he is as the blouses have no chance of going up.
Fizzy pop + Birmingham = A marriage made in heaven
May you never part