Welcome Guest [Log In] [Register]
Welcome to bcfcforum.co.uk. We hope you enjoy your visit.


You're currently viewing our forum as a guest. This means you are limited to certain areas of the board and there are some features you can't use. If you join our community, you'll be able to access member-only sections, and use many member-only features such as customizing your profile, sending personal messages, and voting in polls. Registration is simple, fast, and completely free.


Join our community!


If you're already a member please log in to your account to access all of our features:

Username:   Password:
Add Reply
Sunderland Game: Birmingham City Fan Interview; on behalf of safc-world.co.uk
Topic Started: Aug 6 2010, 12:11 AM (516 Views)
Kitt
James McFadden
[ *  * ]
Hi, I own SAFC World, a Sunderland fan site. Our members have put forward questions for anyone Blue Nose who would like to take part. If you would like to take part in this interview for the upcoming fixture, please reply with your answers and I will post them on my forum.

Thanks to Canadian Brummie for letting me do this again, please pin.

If I could have answers by Tuesday night I would appreciate it. Please reply with your answers in this thread.

Cheers,

Kitt. :)


When you were growing up, who was the player you were most excited to watch when you went to St Andrews?

We all know the big rivalry Birmingham have with Aston Villa, what is your favourite derby moment?

What are your impressions about Sunderland as a football club?

How far do you think you can progress under your new ownership in the long term?

Do you look back on the Gold/Sullivan era with distaste or do you think they played a part in getting the club where it is today?

When Steve Bruce left for Wigan, did you think he would end up in managerial obscurity?

Which Sunderland player do you think will pose the biggest threat to you on the opening day?

Do you think Sunderland can keep on growing as a football club and maybe pose a threat to the teams in the top 8 in the coming years?

Do you have any concerns that Birmingham could suffer from the dreaded "second season syndrome" following their fantastic finish last season after promotion?

Realistically, what are your expectations for Birmingham City next season?

Out of all the players Sunderland have signed this summer, would you have signed any of them?

What area of your squad do you feel is the weakest?

Have you been impressed with Birmingham’s activity in the transfer market so far?

Will you be attending the opening day game?

What is your prediction for the opening day fixture against Sunderland?

Tell us about your most memorable Sunderland Vs Birmingham games...

Birmingham had a good pre season tour of the far east, do you think your profile as a club will now rise there?

Who is your favourite ever Birmingham City player and why?

Gary Breen was a Sunderland player between 2003-2006, can you remember when he was at Birmingham between 1996-1997, if so tell us your favourite memories of him.

Kevin Phillips is and always will be a hero at Sunderland, he’s now been at Birmingham for two seasons and signed another deal. How has he performed at Birmingham so far and what can he offer to the team next season?
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
.Jake
Member Avatar
Nikola Zigic
[ *  *  *  *  * ]
When you were growing up, who was the player you were most excited to watch when you went to St Andrews?

I dont have a very good childhood memory but the player i wanted to see was duggarry, im not entirely sure why

We all know the big rivalry Birmingham have with Aston Villa, what is your favourite derby moment?

When encklmen spilled it, I went wild, although i was very confused

What are your impressions about Sunderland as a football club?

Very good, i like darren bent, hes been brilliant

How far do you think you can progress under your new ownership in the long term?

quite a lot, carson has said he is in it for the long term which is a good sign and has raised our image in china and hong hong which is good

Do you look back on the Gold/Sullivan era with distaste or do you think they played a part in getting the club where it is today?

They were average but its more to do with Steve Bruce and AM

When Steve Bruce left for Wigan, did you think he would end up in managerial obscurity?

i think he would do quite well with wigan and probably be there long term

Which Sunderland player do you think will pose the biggest threat to you on the opening day?

Darren Bent, did great last season and i think he would do brilliant this season

Do you think Sunderland can keep on growing as a football club and maybe pose a threat to the teams in the top 8 in the coming years?

I think they have a chance but the premiership is becoming harder and harder to progress in

Do you have any concerns that Birmingham could suffer from the dreaded "second season syndrome" following their fantastic finish last season after promotion?

No, i think we have good replacements for last season and Zigic is as good as chucho, if not better, and ben foster has great potentiol

Realistically, what are your expectations for Birmingham City next season?

To finish in the top 15

Out of all the players Sunderland have signed this summer, would you have signed any of them?

I would have joe hart back if you got him but i cant say i know much about the signings

What area of your squad do you feel is the weakest?

LM because we have no natural Winger in LM

Have you been impressed with Birmingham’s activity in the transfer market so far?

Yes, however asking prices are to much and we have gone for the right type of players

Will you be attending the opening day game?

Most Probably

What is your prediction for the opening day fixture against Sunderland?

1-1

Tell us about your most memorable Sunderland Vs Birmingham games...

Birmingham had a good pre season tour of the far east, do you think your profile as a club will now rise there?

Definately - we did very successful in the far east and played in some great stadiums with a fair sized crowd

Who is your favourite ever Birmingham City player and why?

Mikael Forssell because he was a natural goalscorer

Gary Breen was a Sunderland player between 2003-2006, can you remember when he was at Birmingham between 1996-1997, if so tell us your favourite memories of him.

Im too young to remember back then

Kevin Phillips is and always will be a hero at Sunderland, he’s now been at Birmingham for two seasons and signed another deal. How has he performed at Birmingham so far and what can he offer to the team next season?

He has been a great impact player and i think he has been successful at what he does and saved us 3 points against wolves and hopefully he can do us well this season coming
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
ESONEULB
Member Avatar
Bluenose Ad Vitam = Bluenose For Life
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
When you were growing up, who was the player you were most excited to watch when you went to St Andrews?

Trevor Francis is by far the best player we had whilst i was growing up.

We all know the big rivalry Birmingham have with Aston Villa, what is your favourite derby moment?

Peter Enckelman at St Andrews
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5uhujTvp6OU

What are your impressions about Sunderland as a football club?

You have done really well and have some really good players. Not sure if Steve Bruce will take you any further forward, infact i think in the end he will take you backwards. Sorry i don't rate him as a long term manger for you. But he has learnt alot since his days with us so i could be wrong about him now.

How far do you think you can progress under your new ownership in the long term?

Fingers crossed that they can make us as big as our second city status. This is Birmingham City and we always seem to shoot ourselves in the foot. But every dog has its day and maybe Yueng has hold of the right bone at last.

Do you look back on the Gold/Sullivan era with distaste or do you think they played a part in getting the club where it is today?

They deffinently help us out and put us on a good solid foundation and most Bluenoses thank them for that. But personally we hate them as a whole for the lies and the way they treated us. At the present time they are a great sence of amusement with the soap that is wet spam.

When Steve Bruce left for Wigan, did you think he would end up in managerial obscurity?

No he is a good manger but a boring one in the same breath. He will always find a job somewere.

Which Sunderland player do you think will pose the biggest threat to you on the opening day?

Darren Bent, he is a class act and should have gone to the world cup.

Do you think Sunderland can keep on growing as a football club and maybe pose a threat to the teams in the top 8 in the coming years?

Possibly if you can keep the backing of money or have an avenue were you can generate the money you will need. Without it you can forget it.

Do you have any concerns that Birmingham could suffer from the dreaded "second season syndrome" following their fantastic finish last season after promotion?

Yes we do but we have faith in Alex McLeish and I still think we will strengthen the team before the transfer window closes'

Realistically, what are your expectations for Birmingham City next season?

To finish mid table. But after last season i hope we can scare Europe with a few more signings.

Out of all the players Sunderland have signed this summer, would you have signed any of them?

No. Simple as that.

What area of your squad do you feel is the weakest?

Left back.

Have you been impressed with Birmingham’s activity in the transfer market so far?

Yes and No. I think the players we have bought are good replacements in Foster and Zigic. The others are for the future. I still think we will add some wide men in midfield and defence before the window closes and if we do most of use will be happy.

Will you be attending the opening day game?

Nope I will be back in Canada but I will be watching it. COME ON BLUES

What is your prediction for the opening day fixture against Sunderland?

We never get a result at your place. So I expect us to lose 2-1. But we won't and we will win 1-2 KRO

Tell us about your most memorable Sunderland Vs Birmingham games...

Sunderland 1 - 6 Birmingham City 1957/1958 First Division...I was not there as i was not born but it sounds like a great game.. **thumbup

Birmingham had a good pre season tour of the far east, do you think your profile as a club will now rise there?

Without doubt but it will take time. All things good come to those who wait. Waiting since 1875 is a bit much though... :LOL:

Who is your favourite ever Birmingham City player and why?

Trevor Francis is but to be honest I never saw enough of him live. So it would have to be Christophe Dugarry he was stunning when he was with us in our early premiership years. We thank Steve Bruce for that.

Gary Breen was a Sunderland player between 2003-2006, can you remember when he was at Birmingham between 1996-1997, if so tell us your favourite memories of him.

Yes i do remember him as a very solid defender and a great servant of Blues. Greatest moment...Hmm if i remember he was only with us for 12 months or so but did get capped for Ireland, so it would be getting the international call up whilst at Blues.

Kevin Phillips is and always will be a hero at Sunderland, he’s now been at Birmingham for two seasons and signed another deal. How has he performed at Birmingham so far and what can he offer to the team next season?

He is a absolute star and will prove a real asset again this season. His 2 late goals at home last season against wolves to get us a win sums him up in a nut shell. Brilliant. He will again be used as a late impact player and with Zigic's causing havoc he could again get us those important late goals.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
.Jake
Member Avatar
Nikola Zigic
[ *  *  *  *  * ]
anytime for a fellow bluenose
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
ESONEULB
Member Avatar
Bluenose Ad Vitam = Bluenose For Life
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
bcfc--4--life
Aug 6 2010, 02:13 AM
anytime for a fellow bluenose

thanks for the correction mate.

can't believe i said a draw.. :LOL:
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
PartisanBCFC
Member Avatar
Jack Wiseman
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
When you were growing up, who was the player you were most excited to watch when you went to St Andrews?

Without any shadow of doubt it was Trevor Francis....by far the best post war player BCFC have produced **thumbup


We all know the big rivalry Birmingham have with Aston Villa, what is your favourite derby moment?

Every time we beat them ....and I've seen plenty, I was even there at st Andrews as a young lad in September 1968 when we hammered them 4-0....our record victory over them to this day ......seeing Andy Gray blow a gasket in 1977 when Trev won a , well let's say dubious penalty, was special as well.....the two wins over them in 2002/03 (3-0 and 2-0) were fantastic moments as well for all BlueNoses considering they had been in the Prem for 10 years and we'd been down in the dumps for 16 years....They feel so superior to us but they are a club with horrible fans living in the past....and always have done ....they love beating us as much as we love beating them.....Believe it or not the rivalry was arguably more intense in the late 60's and 70's when we were a bigger club than them ......Aston is still a rough shod 'Village' to some of us , not even a part of Birmingham :LMAO:

What are your impressions about Sunderland as a football club?

Great fans, incredibly loyal, I admire your intense rivalry with Newcastle....but like us, Sunderland's attendances tend to plummet when you drop down a League ....Like Birmingham, Leicester, West Brom. Sheffield Utd, Derby and Forest you have a reputation as being a bit of a 'yo yo' club,.....I met some Sunderland lads on holiday in Ibiza in 1981, had a great time with them , great set of lads and they loved us Brummies too :drink:

How far do you think you can progress under your new ownership in the long term?

Europa League and beyond, I hope....this club really needs a trophy though, like the FA Cup or The Carling Cup, people won't take us that seriously until we achieve that....our history is biting us in the rear and always has

Do you look back on the Gold/Sullivan era with distaste or do you think they played a part in getting the club where it is today?

They did some good things early on but they were cheapskates, businessmen first and foremost, the results or success on the field were secondary.....They should have moved on 3 or 4 years ago ....I honestly believe they will destroy West Ham and their good image in the long run

When Steve Bruce left for Wigan, did you think he would end up in managerial obscurity?

Steve did a great for us for 3 years then completely lost the plot ....had Sully and Gold had the balls to fire him in January 2006 we may well have stayed up.....I'd also question the man's loyalty after the stunt he pulled with Carson Yeung when the man from Hong Kong first showed interest in buying us....he desperately wants the Newcastle or Man United job and is using Sunderland as a stepping stone just as he did at Wigan.....bottom half PL manager at best, he will never be a top 5 coach.....Might upset a few on here but I stand by my comments....Tactically the man is inept and incredibly self righteous

Which Sunderland player do you think will pose the biggest threat to you on the opening day?

Kenwyne Jones......RJ needs to mark big forwards better...Darren Bent is a danger too with his pace....he's not related to our outstanding and wonderful highly paid centre forward Marcus is he ?? :blink:

Do you think Sunderland can keep on growing as a football club and maybe pose a threat to the teams in the top 8 in the coming years?

Yes, but not wth Bruce.....You are potentially a massive club though thanks to your stadium, resources and support.....Like Newcastle, Sorry, had to mention them too because it's true

Do you have any concerns that Birmingham could suffer from the dreaded "second season syndrome" following their fantastic finish last season after promotion?

No, not at all .....we have new ownership and in McLeish a top grade boss

Realistically, what are your expectations for Birmingham City next season?

Chasing Europa League and doing well in both domestic cups, perhaps even reaching the Final in one of them

Out of all the players Sunderland have signed this summer, would you have signed any of them?

Can't think of them offhand right now.....who did you sign ?? I guess the answer would be 'No'

What area of your squad do you feel is the weakest?

Strikers and flank players

Have you been impressed with Birmingham’s activity in the transfer market so far?

Yes, but we need at least four more

Will you be attending the opening day game?

No, live in the States these days but always try to get back to SA when I can afford it.....have followed BCFC snce 1966 ....even worked for them on 2 occassions....I do get to watch almost every game live though (or tape delay same day)

What is your prediction for the opening day fixture against Sunderland?

2-1 to BCFC **thumbup



Tell us about your most memorable Sunderland Vs Birmingham games...

My Dad remembers beating you in the FA Cup semi final at Hillsborough in 1956....we won 3-0....I recall Clinton's winner a few years back at the SOL and Dugarry scored a great goal in the 2-0 win at home same season.....also Sunderland born and Mackem supporter Micky Harford scored two for us in a FA Cup win back in the early 80's....at the old Roker Park ....Micky Harford was a hero of mine.....great player in a Birmingham City team during a decade we'd best forget....once old Ron had left anyway

Birmingham had a good pre season tour of the far east, do you think your profile as a club will now rise there?

Yes....but it might take 3 or 4 years purely dependant on how we do in the near future

Who is your favourite ever Birmingham City player and why?

Trevor Francis....see above ....also Kenny Burns, Joe Gallagher, Mark Dennis, Frank Worthington and Bob Hatton ....there are many more, too numerous to mention

Gary Breen was a Sunderland player between 2003-2006, can you remember when he was at Birmingham between 1996-1997, if so tell us your favourite memories of him.

Didn't see him much but solid player and highly underrated at the time

Kevin Phillips is and always will be a hero at Sunderland, he’s now been at Birmingham for two seasons and signed another deal. How has he performed at Birmingham so far and what can he offer to the team next season?

SuperKev can always be relied on for match winning goals....This will be his last season with us purely due to his age......Hope he goes into coaching and management....one of the Prem's top strikers over the last decade or more....can see him linking up with his good mate Lee Clarke at Huddersfield eventually



KRO
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
gene autry
Member Avatar
Alex Govan
[ *  *  *  *  * ]
When you were growing up, who was the player you were most excited to watch when you went to St Andrews?

Fred Pickering


We all know the big rivalry Birmingham have with Aston Villa, what is your favourite derby moment?

23 May 1963 1st Leg of Football League Cup

Blues 3- 1 Aston Villa

2nd Leg was goalless.


What are your impressions about Sunderland as a football club?

Treading water, but could be bigger than Newcastle.

How far do you think you can progress under your new ownership in the long term?

For once, I don't see a limit. With Luck there is no such thing as a limit, and after 136 years we deserve our share. :D

Do you look back on the Gold/Sullivan era with distaste or do you think they played a part in getting the club where it is today?

Every owner plays a part. Some greater than others. Sullivan and the Golds lacked the commitment and settled for a nice earner for themselves and a place at the top tables.

When Steve Bruce left for Wigan, did you think he would end up in managerial obscurity?

Yes, and he has. Sunderland could be much better and more attractive without him.

Which Sunderland player do you think will pose the biggest threat to you on the opening day?

Richardson, Malbranque, Bent - in that order.

Do you think Sunderland can keep on growing as a football club and maybe pose a threat to the teams in the top 8 in the coming years?

With a better manager there is no doubt about it.

Do you have any concerns that Birmingham could suffer from the dreaded "second season syndrome" following their fantastic finish last season after promotion?

No

Realistically, what are your expectations for Birmingham City next season?

Top half, but to be safe, earlier and use the January window to kick on positive and safe.

Out of all the players Sunderland have signed this summer, would you have signed any of them?

Mensah - if you get him.

What area of your squad do you feel is the weakest?

Forward

Have you been impressed with Birmingham’s activity in the transfer market so far?

Yes for January and Yes so far - more to be done though.

Will you be attending the opening day game?

No. Live to far away.

What is your prediction for the opening day fixture against Sunderland?

Funny you should say that.
We run a Prediction League for anyone who is a member of the forum - blues fans or visitors like yourself.
So why not try it?
Or any of your SAFC friends - join our forum in peace and join the best Prediction League in the Premier **thumbup


http://bcfcforum.co.uk/index.php?showforum=6



Tell us about your most memorable Sunderland Vs Birmingham games...

11th December 1976
Blues 2-0 Sunderland. Some 6ft Sunderland thug had a screaming rage against my five year old - who gave as good as she got even wishing him a nice trip home.
Your relegation that year was deserved imo. :D

Birmingham had a good pre season tour of the far east, do you think your profile as a club will now rise there?

It has ! And with more business and subsequent marketing strategies there, it will remain or more likely increase in awareness.

Who is your favourite ever Birmingham City player and why?

Joe Bradford - never saw him play. Played 15 seasons for Blues in the 20s-30s { 445 appearances for Blues - 267 goals!}

Gary Breen was a Sunderland player between 2003-2006, can you remember when he was at Birmingham between 1996-1997, if so tell us your favourite memories of him.

Thin. I know more of him at Coventry than when he was blues to be honest.

Kevin Phillips is and always will be a hero at Sunderland, he’s now been at Birmingham for two seasons and signed another deal. How has he performed at Birmingham so far and what can he offer to the team next season?

Probably the cliche - "impact player". But only if he has more than 8 or 10 minutes to make that ' impact'.

**thumbup
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
kelv4blues
Member Avatar
Bob Hatton
[ *  *  *  * ]
When you were growing up, who was the player you were most excited to watch when you went to St Andrews?

When i was growing up my favorite player was stan lazaridis he was a great player.

We all know the big rivalry Birmingham have with Aston Villa, what is your favourite derby moment?

As most bluenoses think the same gotta be peter enkleman with the dodgy keeper routine lol

What are your impressions about Sunderland as a football club?

I love sunderland and count them as my third team i have been in the sunderland end before against man utd with my mate who is a big supporter of sunderland and everyone was so nice.

How far do you think you can progress under your new ownership in the long term?

I think we can progress far and get higher than we did last season.

Do you look back on the Gold/Sullivan era with distaste or do you think they played a part in getting the club where it is today?

Although they did a lot for us they got a little too big for their boots and thought they didn't neeed us fans so treated us badly.

When Steve Bruce left for Wigan, did you think he would end up in managerial obscurity?

Yes, i don't think we would even be in the prem without him.

Which Sunderland player do you think will pose the biggest threat to you on the opening day?

Christian Riveros will want to make an immediate impact.

Do you think Sunderland can keep on growing as a football club and maybe pose a threat to the teams in the top 8 in the coming years?

Yes i think they have the ability to do that now to be honest, the only problem i can see with sunderland is i don't think the defence is as good as it could be.

Do you have any concerns that Birmingham could suffer from the dreaded "second season syndrome" following their fantastic finish last season after promotion?

No, i know it can happen but it didn't to stoke so why should it to us.

Realistically, what are your expectations for Birmingham City next season?

10th place should be about right i think fans would be happy with that.

Out of all the players Sunderland have signed this summer, would you have signed any of them?

umm....... i'm not sure on who may have signed but i think we need so i will have to say no

What area of your squad do you feel is the weakest?

right back i know strikers is normally bad for us but i think we need a right back who isn't injury prone.

Have you been impressed with Birmingham’s activity in the transfer market so far?

Yes zigic and foster are getting along fine and valles is showing up fine.

Will you be attending the opening day game?

no as i will probaly be working.

What is your prediction for the opening day fixture against Sunderland?

1-1 draw is what i think

Tell us about your most memorable Sunderland Vs Birmingham games...

lastseason when the sunderland fans sang 'super kevs' name.

Birmingham had a good pre season tour of the far east, do you think your profile as a club will now rise there?

Yes nealry a total of 50,000 people turned up at one single game to watch blues in a country where no one has seen us before.

Who is your favourite ever Birmingham City player and why?

Same as hte first question stan lazaridis.

Gary Breen was a Sunderland player between 2003-2006, can you remember when he was at Birmingham between 1996-1997, if so tell us your favourite memories of him.

no as i was only a little kid way back then but i do remember him playing for sunderland.

Kevin Phillips is and always will be a hero at Sunderland, he’s now been at Birmingham for two seasons and signed another deal. How has he performed at Birmingham so far and what can he offer to the team next season?

more goals that's what he can offer with zigic in the side he will gert more assists watch him score more than he did last season.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
canadian brummie
Malcom Page
[ *  *  *  *  * ]
Kitt wants to thank all our members that took part in this questionaire.

Hey, sorry for the delay I've been busy. Please thank all of the members who took part

Thank you once again

Kitt
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
ESONEULB
Member Avatar
Bluenose Ad Vitam = Bluenose For Life
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
canadian brummie
Aug 24 2010, 12:00 AM
Kitt wants to thank all our members that took part in this questionaire.

Hey, sorry for the delay I've been busy. Please thank all of the members who took part

Thank you once again

Kitt

any chance on seeing what they used?
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
ESONEULB
Member Avatar
Bluenose Ad Vitam = Bluenose For Life
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
Ok so i found it myself.

http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/sear...n&ct=clnk&gl=ca

It came up when i searched for my own username hense why i am highlighted in yellow.


**thumbup
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
robert capa
Member Avatar
Garry Pendrey
[ *  *  *  * ]
ESONEULB
Aug 30 2010, 11:18 PM
Ok so i found it myself.

http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/sear...n&ct=clnk&gl=ca

It came up when i searched for my own username hense why i am highlighted in yellow.


**thumbup

Link doesnt work
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
ESONEULB
Member Avatar
Bluenose Ad Vitam = Bluenose For Life
[ *  *  *  *  *  *  * ]
robert capa
Aug 31 2010, 01:55 AM
ESONEULB
Aug 30 2010, 11:18 PM
Ok so i found it myself.

http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/sear...n&ct=clnk&gl=ca

It came up when i searched for my own username hense why i am highlighted in yellow.


**thumbup

Link doesnt work

Does for me...i will post it the best i can

Okay then, fan interviews are back!

I've asked once again Birmingham City forum BCFC Forum for a few members to take part in SAFC World's first fan interview of the season.

We ask the Bluenoses about their thoughts on their club progressing under the current ownership, their thoughts on Sunderland and their memories on former Sunderland and Birmingham City star Gary Breen. Thank you to Canadian Brummie again for his permission to let members take part.


When you were growing up, who was the player you were most excited to watch when you went to St Andrews?

bcfc--4--life
I dont have a very good childhood memory but the player i wanted to see was Dugarry, im not entirely sure why.

ESONEULB
Trevor Francis is by far the best player we had whilst i was growing up.

PartisanBCFC
Without any shadow of doubt it was Trevor Francis....by far the best post war player BCFC have produced.

gene autry
Fred Pickering

kelv4blues
When i was growing up my favorite player was stan lazaridis he was a great player.

We all know the big rivalry Birmingham have with Aston Villa, what is your favourite derby moment?

bcfc--4--life
When Enckelman spilled it, I went wild, although I was very confused.

ESONEULB
Peter Enckelman at St Andrews.

PartisanBCFC
Every time we beat them ....and I've seen plenty, I was even there at st Andrews as a young lad in September 1968 when we hammered them 4-0....our record victory over them to this day ......seeing Andy Gray blow a gasket in 1977 when Trev won a , well let's say dubious penalty, was special as well.....the two wins over them in 2002/03 (3-0 and 2-0) were fantastic moments as well for all BlueNoses considering they had been in the Prem for 10 years and we'd been down in the dumps for 16 years....They feel so superior to us but they are a club with horrible fans living in the past....and always have done ....they love beating us as much as we love beating them.....Believe it or not the rivalry was arguably more intense in the late 60's and 70's when we were a bigger club than them ......Aston is still a rough shod 'Village' to some of us , not even a part of Birmingham.

gene autry
23 May 1963 1st Leg of Football League Cup.

Blues 3- 1 Aston Villa

2nd Leg was goalless.

kelv4blues
As most bluenoses think the same gotta be Peter Enckleman with the dodgy keeper routine.

What are your impressions about Sunderland as a football club?

bcfc--4--life
Very good, I like Darren Bent, hes been brilliant.

ESONEULB
You have done really well and have some really good players. Not sure if Steve Bruce will take you any further forward, infact i think in the end he will take you backwards. Sorry i don't rate him as a long term manger for you. But he has learnt alot since his days with us so i could be wrong about him now.

PartisanBCFC
Great fans, incredibly loyal, I admire your intense rivalry with Newcastle....but like us, Sunderland's attendances tend to plummet when you drop down a League ....Like Birmingham, Leicester, West Brom. Sheffield Utd, Derby and Forest you have a reputation as being a bit of a 'yo yo' club,.....I met some Sunderland lads on holiday in Ibiza in 1981, had a great time with them , great set of lads and they loved us Brummies too.

gene autry
Treading water, but could be bigger than Newcastle.

kelv4blues
I love sunderland and count them as my third team i have been in the sunderland end before against man utd with my mate who is a big supporter of sunderland and everyone was so nice.

How far do you think you can progress under your new ownership in the long term?

bcfc--4--life
Quite a lot, Carson has said he is in it for the long term which is a good sign and has raised our image in China and Hong Kong which is good.

ESONEULB
Fingers crossed that they can make us as big as our second city status. This is Birmingham City and we always seem to shoot ourselves in the foot. But every dog has its day and maybe Yueng has hold of the right bone at last.

PartisanBCFC
Europa League and beyond, I hope....this club really needs a trophy though, like the FA Cup or The Carling Cup, people won't take us that seriously until we achieve that....our history is biting us in the rear and always has.

gene autry
For once, I don't see a limit. With Luck there is no such thing as a limit, and after 136 years we deserve our share.

kelv4blues
I think we can progress far and get higher than we did last season.

Do you look back on the Gold/Sullivan era with distaste or do you think they played a part in getting the club where it is today?

bcfc--4--life
They were average but its more to do with Steve Bruce and AM.

ESONEULB
They deffinently help us out and put us on a good solid foundation and most Bluenoses thank them for that. But personally we hate them as a whole for the lies and the way they treated us. At the present time they are a great sence of amusement with the soap that is wet spam.

PartisanBCFC
They did some good things early on but they were cheapskates, businessmen first and foremost, the results or success on the field were secondary.....They should have moved on 3 or 4 years ago ....I honestly believe they will destroy West Ham and their good image in the long run.

gene autry
Every owner plays a part. Some greater than others. Sullivan and the Golds lacked the commitment and settled for a nice earner for themselves and a place at the top tables.

kelv4blues
Although they did a lot for us they got a little too big for their boots and thought they didn't neeed us fans so treated us badly.

When Steve Bruce left for Wigan, did you think he would end up in managerial obscurity?

bcfc--4--life
I thought he would have done quite well with Wigan and stay in the long term.

ESONEULB
No he is a good manger but a boring one in the same breath. He will always find a job somewere.

PartisanBCFC
Steve did a great for us for 3 years then completely lost the plot ....had Sully and Gold had the balls to fire him in January 2006 we may well have stayed up.....I'd also question the man's loyalty after the stunt he pulled with Carson Yeung when the man from Hong Kong first showed interest in buying us....he desperately wants the Newcastle or Man United job and is using Sunderland as a stepping stone just as he did at Wigan.....bottom half PL manager at best, he will never be a top 5 coach.....Might upset a few on here but I stand by my comments....Tactically the man is inept and incredibly self righteous.

gene autry
Yes, and he has. Sunderland could be much better and more attractive without him.

kelv4blues
Yes, I don't think we would even be in the Prem without him.

Which Sunderland player do you think will pose the biggest threat to you on the opening day?

bcfc--4--life
Darren Bent, did great last season and I think he would do brilliant this season.

ESONEULB
Darren Bent, he is a class act and should have gone to the World Cup.

PartisanBCFC
Kenwyne Jones......RJ needs to mark big forwards better...Darren Bent is a danger too with his pace....he's not related to our outstanding and wonderful highly paid centre forward Marcus is he?

gene autry
Richardson, Malbranque, Bent - in that order.

kelv4blues
Christian Riveros will want to make an immediate impact.

Do you think Sunderland can keep on growing as a football club and maybe pose a threat to the teams in the top 8 in the coming years?

bcfc--4--life
I think they have a chance but the premiership is becoming harder and harder to progress in.

ESONEULB
Possibly if you can keep the backing of money or have an avenue were you can generate the money you will need. Without it you can forget it.

PartisanBCFC
Yes, but not wth Bruce.....You are potentially a massive club though thanks to your stadium, resources and support.....Like Newcastle, Sorry, had to mention them too because it's true.

gene autry
With a better manager there is no doubt about it.

kelv4blues
Yes i think they have the ability to do that now to be honest, the only problem i can see with sunderland is i don't think the defence is as good as it could be.

Do you have any concerns that Birmingham could suffer from the dreaded "second season syndrome" following their fantastic finish last season after promotion?

bcfc--4--life
No, I think we have good replacements and Zigic is as good as Chucho, if not better, and Ben Foster has great potential.

ESONEULB
Yes we do but we have faith in Alex McLeish and I still think we will strengthen the team before the transfer window closes.

PartisanBCFC
No, not at all .....we have new ownership and in McLeish a top grade boss.

gene autry
No.

kelv4blues
No, i know it can happen but it didn't to Stoke so why should it to us.

Realistically, what are your expectations for Birmingham City next season?

bcfc--4--life
To finish in the top 15.

ESONEULB
To finish mid table. But after last season i hope we can scare Europe with a few more signings.

PartisanBCFC
Chasing Europa League and doing well in both domestic cups, perhaps even reaching the Final in one of them.

gene autry
Top half, but to be safe, earlier and use the January window to kick on positive and safe.

kelv4blues
10th place should be about right i think fans would be happy with that.

Out of all the players Sunderland have signed this summer, would you have signed any of them?

bcfc--4--life
I would have Joe Hart back if you got him but I can't say I know much about the signings.

ESONEULB
No. Simple as that.

PartisanBCFC
Can't think of them offhand right now.....who did you sign ?? I guess the answer would be 'No'

gene autry
Mensah - if you get him.

kelv4blues
umm...... I'm not sure on who may have signed but I think we need so I will have to say no.

What area of your squad do you feel is the weakest?

bcfc--4--life
Left midfield because we have no natural winger.

ESONEULB
Left back.

PartisanBCFC
Strikers and flank players.

gene autry
Forward

kelv4blues
Right back i know strikers is normally bad for us but i think we need a right back who isn't injury prone.

Have you been impressed with Birmingham’s activity in the transfer market so far?

bcfc--4--life
Yes, however asking prices are to much and we have gone for the right type of players

ESONEULB
Yes and No. I think the players we have bought are good replacements in Foster and Zigic. The others are for the future. I still think we will add some wide men in midfield and defence before the window closes and if we do most of use will be happy.

PartisanBCFC
Yes, but we need at least four more.

gene autry
Yes for January and Yes so far - more to be done though.

kelv4blues
Yes Zigic and Foster are getting along fine and Valles is showing up fine.

Will you be attending the opening day game?

bcfc--4--life
Most probably.

ESONEULB
Nope I will be back in Canada but I will be watching it. COME ON BLUES.

PartisanBCFC
No, live in the States these days but always try to get back to SA when I can afford it.....have followed BCFC snce 1966 ....even worked for them on 2 occassions....I do get to watch almost every game live though (or tape delay same day)

gene autry
No. Live to far away.

kelv4blues
No as I will probably be working.

What is your prediction for the opening day fixture against Sunderland?

bcfc--4--life
1-1

PartisanBCFC
2-1 to BCFC.

ESONEULB
We never get a result at your place. So I expect us to lose 2-1. But we won't and we will win 1-2 KRO.

gene autry
Funny you should say that.
We run a Prediction League for anyone who is a member of the forum - blues fans or visitors like yourself.
So why not try it?
Or any of your SAFC friends - join our forum in peace and join the best Prediction League in the Premier.

kelv4blues
1-1 draw is what i think.

Tell us about your most memorable Sunderland Vs Birmingham games...

ESONEULB
Sunderland 1 - 6 Birmingham City 1957/1958 First Division...I was not there as i was not born but it sounds like a great game..

PartisanBCFC
My Dad remembers beating you in the FA Cup semi final at Hillsborough in 1956....we won 3-0....I recall Clinton's winner a few years back at the SOL and Dugarry scored a great goal in the 2-0 win at home same season.....also Sunderland born and Mackem supporter Micky Harford scored two for us in a FA Cup win back in the early 80's....at the old Roker Park ....Micky Harford was a hero of mine.....great player in a Birmingham City team during a decade we'd best forget....once old Ron had left anyway.

gene autry
11th December 1976
Blues 2-0 Sunderland. Some 6ft Sunderland thug had a screaming rage against my five year old - who gave as good as she got even wishing him a nice trip home.
Your relegation that year was deserved imo.

kelv4blues
Last season when the Sunderland fans sang 'Super Kevs' name.

Birmingham had a good pre season tour of the far east, do you think your profile as a club will now rise there?

bcfc--4--life
Definately - we did very successful in the far east and played in some great stadiums with a fair sized crowd.

ESONEULB
Without doubt but it will take time. All things good come to those who wait. Waiting since 1875 is a bit much though...

PartisanBCFC
Yes....but it might take 3 or 4 years purely dependant on how we do in the near future.

gene autry
It has ! And with more business and subsequent marketing strategies there, it will remain or more likely increase in awareness.

kelv4blues
Yes nearly a total of 50,000 people turned up at one single game to watch blues in a country where no one has seen us before.

Who is your favourite ever Birmingham City player and why?

bcfc--4--life
Mikael Forssell because he was a natural goalscorer.

ESONEULB
Trevor Francis is but to be honest I never saw enough of him live. So it would have to be Christophe Dugarry he was stunning when he was with us in our early premiership years. We thank Steve Bruce for that.

PartisanBCFC
Trevor Francis....see above ....also Kenny Burns, Joe Gallagher, Mark Dennis, Frank Worthington and Bob Hatton ....there are many more, too numerous to mention.

gene autry
Joe Bradford - never saw him play. Played 15 seasons for Blues in the 20s-30s { 445 appearances for Blues - 267 goals!}

kelv4blues
Same as the first question Stan Lazaridis.

Gary Breen was a Sunderland player between 2003-2006, can you remember when he was at Birmingham between 1996-1997, if so tell us your favourite memories of him.

bcfc--4--life
I'm too young to remember back then.

ESONEULB
Yes i do remember him as a very solid defender and a great servant of Blues. Greatest moment...Hmm if i remember he was only with us for 12 months or so but did get capped for Ireland, so it would be getting the international call up whilst at Blues.

PartisanBCFC
Didn't see him much but solid player and highly underrated at the time.

gene autry
Thin. I know more of him at Coventry than when he was blues to be honest.

kelv4blues
No as I was only a little kid way back then but I do remember him playing for Sunderland.

Kevin Phillips is and always will be a hero at Sunderland, he’s now been at Birmingham for two seasons and signed another deal. How has he performed at Birmingham so far and what can he offer to the team?

bcfc--4--life
He has been a great impact player and i think he has been successful at what he does and saved us 3 points against wolves and hopefully he can do us well this season coming.

ESONEULB
He is a absolute star and will prove a real asset again this season. His 2 late goals at home last season against wolves to get us a win sums him up in a nut shell. Brilliant. He will again be used as a late impact player and with Zigic's causing havoc he could again get us those important late goals.

PartisanBCFC
SuperKev can always be relied on for match winning goals....This will be his last season with us purely due to his age......Hope he goes into coaching and management....one of the Prem's top strikers over the last decade or more....can see him linking up with his good mate Lee Clarke at Huddersfield eventually.

gene autry
Probably the cliche - "impact player". But only if he has more than 8 or 10 minutes to make that ' impact'.

kelv4blues
More goals that's what he can offer with zigic in the side he will gert more assists watch him score more than he did last season.

Contributors to this interview are Titi, Rhys and Fowdy92.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Replys


Worldglasgowmackem Aug 9 2010, 12:33 PM
Excellent read, well done to all involved.

Dangly HamAug 9 2010, 12:49 PM
Decent read actually, alot of those replies weren't very well thought out mind.

I think there may be a little bitterness towards Brucie...

glasgowmackem Aug 9 2010, 01:02 PM
'your relegation was deserved that year'

Thanks.

Titi Aug 9 2010, 07:52 PM
I'm not surprised by some comments made by the Bluenoses because some didn't rate Bruce. I will tell you why.

This is my view on him.

Back in 2001, Birmingham City were a mid table (old First Division) club. They were going nowhere, they made the 1999, 2000 and 2001 playoffs under previous manager Trevor Francis. Trevor Francis did bring Steve Bruce as a player to the club in 1996 and he played for them for two years as captain. He was a very good player although Birmingham couldn't make make any assault on promotion.

When Steve Bruce left he managed Huddesfield, Birmingham became a stronger team, making the League Cup final in 2001 but lacked winning mentality. In late 2001 Birmingham released Trevor Francis as manager and poached Crystal Palace for Steve Bruce. Simon Jordan was furious and he's never forgiven the Golds or Sullivan for it. In his first six months as manager, Bruce took Birmingham from 12th place to 5th, winning the play offs. They beat Norwich City on pens, the winning pen was scored by Darren Carter, he was a player to join Sunderland a few seasons later if anyone remembers him.

When Birmingham were in the Premier League they gained a reputation of being a tough side to beat, finishing 13th then 10th, then 12th. The fourth season they were relegated and became back up at the first time of asking (narrowly losing to Sunderland for the Championship).

Steve Bruce turned Birmingham into winners, and he was given time to do so, you can argue they have to thank him for where they are now. However, many fans disliked him because they felt he was tactically inept, he used to play players out of position and he had favourites. If he didn't like you, he wouldn't play you.
TichJnrAug 10 2010, 01:18 AM
Tbh what they said about Bruce was how I feel now, he is tactically inept, he is only a bottom half manager etc..
micky_rooneyAug 10 2010, 08:57 AM
Love these reads like. Quality stuff..

every answer was different when they replied to what position could be strengthened, strange is that cos we all know where we could improve..

Also shame none of the posters are going to make the home game.

Genericus Aug 10 2010, 09:32 AM

Fantastic read, cheers mate

safccubby Aug 10 2010, 11:52 AM
QUOTE (Titi @ Aug 9 2010, 08:52 PM)
I'm not surprised by some comments made by the Bluenoses because some didn't rate Bruce. I will tell you why.

This is my view on him.

Back in 2001, Birmingham City were a mid table (old First Division) club. They were going nowhere, they made the 1999, 2000 and 2001 playoffs under previous manager Trevor Francis. Trevor Francis did bring Steve Bruce as a player to the club in 1996 and he played for them for two years as captain. He was a very good player although Birmingham couldn't make make any assault on promotion.

When Steve Bruce left he managed Huddesfield, Birmingham became a stronger team, making the League Cup final in 2001 but lacked winning mentality. In late 2001 Birmingham released Trevor Francis as manager and poached Crystal Palace for Steve Bruce. Simon Jordan was furious and he's never forgiven the Golds or Sullivan for it. In his first six months as manager, Bruce took Birmingham from 12th place to 5th, winning the play offs. They beat Norwich City on pens, the winning pen was scored by Darren Carter, he was a player to join Sunderland a few seasons later if anyone remembers him.

When Birmingham were in the Premier League they gained a reputation of being a tough side to beat, finishing 13th then 10th, then 12th. The fourth season they were relegated and became back up at the first time of asking (narrowly losing to Sunderland for the Championship).

Steve Bruce turned Birmingham into winners, and he was given time to do so, you can argue they have to thank him for where they are now. However, many fans disliked him because they felt he was tactically inept, he used to play players out of position and he had favourites. If he didn't like you, he wouldn't play you.

He still does I suppose and I definatly get the impression he has his favourites, I do like him though think he is a good manager and great at picking up bargains in the transfer market

Good read, love these to get opinions of the opposition fans and how they view us

Titi Aug 12 2010, 11:42 PM
QUOTE (safccubby @ Aug 10 2010, 12:52 PM)
He still does I suppose and I definatly get the impression he has his favourites, I do like him though think he is a good manager and great at picking up bargains in the transfer market

Good read, love these to get opinions of the opposition fans and how they view us

He's picked up Danny Welbeck now, I can remember when he took Nicklas Bendtner on loan from Arsenal at Birmingham in the 2006/07 season along with Sebastian Larsson and Fabrice Muamba and people were sniggering about it. Bendtner played well scoring 11 goals for them in the Championship. He's now a regular at Arsenal so he's excellent at spotting young talent as well.
TichJnrAug 12 2010, 11:52 PM
Bendnter is shocking IMO

SAFCseven Aug 12 2010, 11:53 PM
QUOTE (TichJnr @ Aug 13 2010, 12:52 AM)
Bendnter is shocking IMO

Agreed but Mr Wenger rates him.
TitiAug 12 2010, 11:54 PM
He's just inconsistant. The talent is there for all to see.
TichJnrAug 12 2010, 11:58 PM
I don't actually think he's all that talented, he's a woeful finisher and doesn't do much else.
Gardner-FTMAug 13 2010, 01:12 PM
QUOTE (Titi @ Aug 13 2010, 12:54 AM)
He's just inconsistant. The talent is there for all to see.


Sounds like a certain Kenwyne Jones.

Joe Bolton Aug 13 2010, 03:59 PM
Good thread this Titi.

Well done mate

Titi Aug 13 2010, 04:04 PM
Thanks Joe, much appreciated. I will try and keep these going.


That is it i think, hard to tell when you try and paste it of a site

enjoy.

**thumbup
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
1 user reading this topic (1 Guest and 0 Anonymous)
« Previous Topic · Blues Chat · Next Topic »
Add Reply

Forum Design by Hirsty.