Cunningham central to Blues' big revival

STEVE BRUCE hailed the impact of Kenny Cunningham on Birmingham City's massive upturn in fortunes and claimed "he is getting better with age" ahead of today's clash with Manchester United.

Matthew Upson has rightly received plenty of plaudits for his performances at the back which have seen him converted from an Arsenal reserve to an England squad regular since his January move to St Andrews.

But the steadying influence and know-how of Republic of Ireland captain Cunningham has been just as crucial to the Blues solid first season in the top flight and unbeaten start to the current campaign.