Blues boss Lee Clark has no fears for new-look Blues
Birmingham boss Lee Clark today issued a rallying call as he prepared to send his new-look side into Championship action.
Clarke could field up to eight new signings when Blues host beaten play-off finalists Watford tomorrow on the opening day of the new season.
Despite having to rebuild his squad in the close season, Clarke is urging his players to show no fear against Gianfranco Zola's side, who are fancied to be promotion contenders again.
"You have got to respect the opponents you are coming up against," said the St Andrew's chief.
"Respect your opponents but never fear them.
"I am expecting an unbelievably tough game from Watford. They are one of the outstanding teams in the division.
"They are an extension of their manager – the flair that they play with and their pace.
"They were unlucky not to get promoted and he has kept the majority of that team together and they will be there or thereabouts again.
"We know it's a very tough start but I think my players are excited by that and they are up for it.
"They have looked hungry this week. It's looked like there's a great spirit and belief, without being arrogant, and we know we've got to deliver.
"Of course it's a little bit of a gamble with some of them. They're young and there's some inexperience there.
"But I have watched them, I have seen them perform at their previous clubs and I have worked with some of them when they were younger.
"I believe in them 100 per cent as a manager. They have got to believe in themselves."