John Eustace will prioritize points over praise at Birmingham City despite trying to make it easier for his side to stand out this season.
The Blues boss put a lot of emphasis on improving the quality of his team’s possession during the summer and we’ve seen the rewards on several occasions this season. The Blues’ second goal against Bristol City came after a pinpoint pass, while Jay Stansfield’s against Millwall came through Juninho Bacuna’s deft Pass to tie the game.
However, with eight goals in the first eight games, only four teams have scored fewer goals than the Blues in the Championship. Questions remain about the Blues’ ability to break through deep defences.
To flip a coin, only Leicester City and Preston North End have a better defensive record than Eustace’s side. While the Blues may not score as freely as their opponents Norwich City this weekend, their defense is well drilled and difficult to break down.
“We want to play mixed football,” Eustace said, explaining his team’s style. “Of course we want to play attractive football, but we also want to play winning football. I think that’s what we did. “I don’t think we played too much and I don’t think we played too long. “
READ: Another reason why Tom Wagner took over at Birmingham City now becomes clear
READ: Blues could lose five players at Norwich City after fresh injury blow
Buchanan on Blues defensive success
Eustace tends to praise the entire squad for the Blues’ impressive defensive record, but some individuals clearly make a greater contribution than others. For example, Lee Buchanan has performed well at left-back since joining the club from Werder Bremen this summer.
The Blues have conceded just five goals in Buchanan’s seven starts and kept three clean sheets in the process – including Friday night when Buchanan missed Preston North End through suspension The defeat was followed by a draw with Queens Park Rangers.
“We pride ourselves on winning the first ball and being in the right position,” Buchanan said of the Blues’ defensive stability. “If a guy comes into the box, we pick him up and talk to each other. Sometimes when things don’t go well, John (Rudy) will make the save behind us. As a five-man unit, we work really well.”
Buchanan is also keen to play his part in improving the Blues’ fortunes at the other end. He added: “I think we have to be better in the final third, myself included, but I think if we keep playing like this (QPR) we will get there.”
Brady expected to improve Blues image
Blues investor Tom Brady is expected to emulate the influence of Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Wrexham’s Rob McElhenney. The seven-time Super Bowl champion is one of the supporters of Tom Wagner and Knighthead in the Second City.
He watched the Blues beat Leeds United in August and plans to share his knowledge and thoughts with staff at the club. Former Blues winger Jermaine Pennant believes Brady will have a bigger impact off the field.
“It’s certainly not bad, Brady is in Birmingham,” OLBG said. “Not many people would know about Wrexham if it wasn’t for Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenny! They brought Wrexham to rugby league and attracted a lot of headlines. Brady will definitely attract more attention “If he can replicate what happened at Wrexham then I’m sure Birmingham fans will be licking their lips.”