McLeish handed award

Birmingham boss Alex McLeish has been named the Premier League manager of the month for December.

McLeish has received the award after steering Blues to a six-game unbeaten league run during the month from which they collected 14 points.

They have not tasted defeat in 11 league games in total, equalling a club record stretching back to 1908.

They have climbed into the top 10 of the Barclays Premier League after being written off as relegation candidates during the summer.

But in typical fashion the modest McLeish insisted the award was a reflection on all his staff and players.

The former Scotland and Rangers manager said: “It’s with great pride that I accept the Barclays manager of the month award.

“It is a reward for the hard work, dedication and professionalism shown by many people behind the scenes – not least my coaching team, the players, club staff and the supporters.

“This is a pat on the back for everyone at this club who has given their all so far this season.

“But we won’t allow it to affect our focus.

“We know there’s still a long way to go and we’ll continue to work hard to achieve our aim of staying in the Premier League.”

Birmingham have already accumulated 32 points and are only a handful away from guaranteeing safety after being promoted from the Coca Cola Championship last season as runners-up to Wolves.