McLeish labels McCarthy 'a winner'

Birmingham boss Alex McLeish has labelled Mick McCarthy a "winner" and backed him to lead Wolves to Premier League safety.

The pair face-off at St Andrew's on Sunday with Blues eighth in the top flight and Wolves clear of the relegation zone on goal difference.

But McLeish expects McCarthy to keep his side up, regardless of the result on Sunday, and believes the Molineux board are reaping the rewards of sticking with their man.

He said: "I don't see any reason why they can't stay up, with the players and the manager they've got. They have a guy of enormous experience in Mick - a winner.

"You look for a little bit of loyalty from the board and a bit of trust and the fans react to results, one time they might want you out but a year later you are the hero."

Blues go into the game as favourites after their recent run of just one defeat in 17 games, but McLeish insists Wolves won't be underestimated.

He said: "It's a huge game and you can't dismiss any derby. You have to play every one the same level of importance. My players were determined to get three points against Spurs last week and it will be the same on Sunday.

"I can't see this group being complacent, they might not play well every single game but what they do have is a never-say-die attitude."