Another super edition thanks again. Watching Jude from afar online from Brazil 🇧🇷 seeing the talent from his first to last game has to make him my favorite Blues player. Home grown too makes him super special KRO. I missed watching Trevor sadly!
As life long Blues Fan of many years, I have seen and admired scores of Blues players. But my all time favorite has to be the magical Bertie Auld, who was not only a great player, he was a real character.
Favourite player down the Blues since I've been going down since 1997 was Barry Ferguson, he made the game look so easy & did everything with class. Shame we didn't get him earlier on but he was a gifted midfielder even in his advancing years.
Favourite player, for me, has to be Geoff Horsfield. The 02-03 derbies against Villa from scoring at the St. Andrews fixture, nicking to ball off Enckelman to score in the reverse fixture to actually playing in goal after Vaesen went off injured, and keeping a clean sheet! Not to mention all the great work he's done off the pitch. True Blues legend.
Loads of favourites over the years but the most gifted and skilful player I’ve seen in the last 50 years gets my vote - Jose Dominguez. The game is all about entertainment and he put on a show for us when he pulled on the shirt.
Paul Devlin, Blue Nose, my age, living the dream scoring goals and getting into the premiership and then slamming the ball in to beat Leeds for our first Premier League win
Great to see Bob Hatton getting quite a few mentions. So under-rated, but such an integral part of that legendary Francis, Latchford, Hatton forward line. And how could anyone forget that Viva Zapata moustache!
Favourite player?? Paul Tait. A lad from the streets of Brum, not scared of anyone no matter how big! A talent that didn’t quite realised his potential, but I’d have him in any team , skilful, tenacious and always gave 100% PAUL TAIT💙 KRO
My first ever favourite at blues was Mark Dennis. tough, uncompromising and a left-back, like me. Although, I wasn’t tough and often compromised!😂 His passion and grit made him my favourite 🔵
Favourite player is Trevor Francis. My dad used to sneak me under the turnstiles when I was 5, and remember seeing Trevor score, and the crowd roar, and been a Blues fan ever since.
Steve Claridge - he was the one scoring the goals when I first went down St Andrew's. Loved his low slung socks but loved his work-rate and never give up style even more!
Dugarry for me... Simply because he was the first player that I personally watched on the pitch and who wowed me when I started to go to more games with my dad.
My favourite blues player had to be Dave Langan. When I first started going to games as a child, he always impressed me with his overlapping runs and quality delivery. I just thought he was amazing! Such a shame how injury wrecked his career and then the tough times he had as a result.
Modern day favourite player - Maikel Kieftenbeld - loved his aggression and his big slide challenges, clattering Grealish at every given opportunity always give him extra bonus points - not to mention his screamer against Derby (A) and Preston (H)
Very hard to nail it down but it is probably Dugarry during my life time. Thanks for the podcasts over the last year Alex & Brian, always very enjoyable. Here’s to many more. KRO
Feels a cliche but I’d say Trevor Francis. As a kid at school seeing Francis break into the Blues team and score so many was the thing that really got me into Blues back then in the early 1970s. Also the excitement seeing him come back as our manager. In recent years up until he passed away I’d see him in Brueton Park in Solihull early on weekend mornings on his regular walk and he’d always say hello or chat for a short while.
Dugarry for me - that was my first season supporting Blues. Special player. Forssell a close second! Really enjoying the pod, gents. Congrats on the year 👏🏻
My favourite was always Mikael Forssell, went a bit under the radar with Dugarry signing permanently etc. But I'll say Upson. He oozed class. He was one of the best centre halves in the country when he played for us, and obviously represented England too which was a proud moment as a Blues fan
Favourite player Trevor Francis. I want to talk more about my favourite manager. Lou Macari. He invited me into the dressing room. Made me a cup of tea and spoke about football. Down to earth gentleman.
My favourite player of all time is super Trevor Francis. From his first game to his last game over many, many seasons (September 1970- February 1979) A true Blue!!
Mikael Forsell! 👑 I was fortunate enough to grow up throughout the premier league era, which then became an expectation for me. How that ideology came crashing down over the last decade or so. However, he was one of my idols as a young lad who adored the game both as a spectator and player throughout my youth. What a player!
The late and great Trevor Francis. I was one of the hundred thousand 😃at St Andrews when he scored those 4 goals against Bolton when only 16 years old. Gone but never forgotten. RIP superboy.
Trevor Francis easy decision saw his debut followed him all the way into management was Mr Birmingham city. Christophe second Frank Worthington 3rd the Mercurials of Birmingham.
Nigel gleghorn was my favourite as a boy. During quite a miserable era for blues Nigel was a decent footballer with a lovely left foot and to add to that he had that great goalscoring season getting on the end of many Ian Rodgerson crosses to head in at the far post. I remember picking up the evening mail one afternoon and despairingly reading on the back page that we’d sold him to Stoke for 100k what a miserable walk home from the newsagents that was!
I could probably name most of the 94/95 team amongst my favourites. Loved watching Steve Claridge bang in the goals , Mark Ward bossing the midfield, Daish marshalling at the back and Benno behind him, who I always thought was going to be pinched by one of the big boys. So many since: Bryan Hughes, Mikael Forsell, Seb Larsson, Le God, I still love Cameron Jerome. When I heard you ask the question, the name that was always on the tip of my tongue was Michael Johnson, who was so solid for us on the journey back to the Premier League, but I’m going to nail my colours to the mast and say Dugarry’s strike partner, Geoff Horsfield. A big battering ram of a striker who embodied everything I loved about the fight, desire and heart we showed when we reached the Premier League.
Dugarry my all time favourite can remember him signing closely followed by Seb Larsson unfortunately not old enough to of seen some of the other greats I.e Francis, Hatton etc
Ive been watching blues for 39 years. Theres only 2 names ive ever had on the back of a shirt one was Trevor Francis and second was dugary, easily the best player ive seen play at st Andrews, ill never forget him popping out from behind the sceen with brucey when they announced him, hes my all time favorite player, and no im not just saying this for the poster, great pod as always gents
Would find it easier to pick a best eleven, so many favourites over the years since I’ve been going down since the early 80s. Going for Stan “the man” Lazaridis as he always got the crowd on their feet when he got the ball. Legend.
I have 3 for different reasons 1: Paul Devlin - first player that ever wow’ed me also the first player I ever met at a preseason game against Newcastle (you never forget your first) 2: Seb Larsson - free kicks, ‘that Tottenham goal’ and the solo goal against Sheffield Wednesday was the last game I saw with my dad before he passed, a memory I’ll never forget! 3: Martin Grainger - one of the most underrated players I can remember at blues. Tenacious, solid and a quality left foot.
Robbie Savage for me. I know his end with us was acrimonious, and he was never the most skillful, but that man left everything on the pitch every time he played. Those first couple of seasons back in the prem were glorious and his energy and enthusiasm had me grinning every time I watched us play.
A far better player than a lot of people gave him credit for. His work effort gave him an extra edge and until his legs started to slow him down he was an excellent player who certainly didnt look out of place in the Premier league. Only thing that let him down was that when he lost interest in a club he became a bit of a cock... that said I certainly held no hard feelings when he left blues, prior to the final period he had put his heart, soul and body into every performance.
Dugarry was my second favourite all time player. But old enough to remember TF. He was my hero. Still till this day my Auntie calls me Trev!😂 😂😂 Great show as always boys
Bryan Hughes. Adored the guy when I was a kid. Seemed to glide around the pitch effortlessly, and had a penchant for scoring absolute corkers. Especially his Bergkamp-esque goal against Watford.
Great podcast guys!! My favourite blues player of all time is Barry Ferguson. Great player, very smart, comfortable on the ball. Felt he took us to the next level at the time.
Martin Grainger was my all-time favorite Birmingham City player because he embodied everything that Blues fans admire-passion, grit, and loyalty. His no-nonsense style as a tough-tackling left-back made him a fan favorite, but it was his heart on the sleeve attitude that truly set him apart. Grainger played with the kind of determination and drive that lifted the entire team, never shying away from a challenge, both in defense and going forward. He wasn't just a defender; he had an eye for goal and was a set-piece specialist, which made him a constant threat. Some of my favorite memories are of him hammering in free kicks or penalties at crucial moments, giving us hope when it mattered most. His commitment to the club during his time at Birmingham, especially in those hard-fought battles in the Championship, made him a true Blue legend. Above all, it was his leadership and dedication that left a lasting impact on me as a fan. He wasn’t the flashiest player, but his consistency and desire to give everything for the shirt is what made him special. For me, Grainger will always represent the spirit of Birmingham City-fighting against the odds with passion and determination.
Great pod as always guys. So many players who embraced the badge rather than ability as that means so much more (as crystalised by Bacuna). Just cant choose one. If i wad forced, and given my own criteria I'd be thinking Stephen Carr. Remember so many wingers wondering 'How did he take the ball from me'. The joy
I became a blues fan back in 95 as a 10 year old where I fell in love with the fans on an away day vs Cambridge utd away and saw the great Jose Dominguez who was very exciting. Although perhaps not my favourite player of all time but someone who fell under the radar for me was Christian Benitez who done an incredible job of linking up midfield to the strikers and turned Cameron Jerome into a prolific goalscorer that year. He was a big part of what ended up being the most successful season in recent Birmingham history. I only wish we had more seasons with him and more years to celebrate with him off the field. KRO
Goodness me, what a question. There are so many that have brought joy over the decades. BUT with a nod to all the guys already mentioned, my favourite was Fred Pickering. The stooped header against Chelsea in FACup6 and the x2 cannon blasts against The Baggies at Villa Park in FACupSF. Sadly both blasts hit the crossbar.
My favourite player has to be Nikola Zigic, the four goals against leeds, the goal to kick us off in the famous comeback at Bolton or the one to kick us off in the slightly more famous, and with a bit more grandeur, against Arsenal in the League cup final. A top player for us and one that has certainly earned their place in the history books for all bluenoses (oh, and we could never forget 'Like a light bulb.')
My Favourite Blues player of all time has to be Martin Grainger, never easy having to pick one out! I loved his passion, his aggression and his desire to win along with a magical left foot! KRO
It was a great win over Wrexham, and I am glad the pod cast got recognition on Sky! It's been enjoyable listening to the podcast over the years and I've enjoyed every listen (despite the football being spoken about at times). I hope to see Dugarry on the pod soon. My favourite player of all time has to be big Zigi! He sometimes couldn't hit a garden shed, but boy did he score in some big games for the club. Arsenal, SOTV and the last day against Bolton. Couldn't not love the guy. KRO!
Favourite Blues player has to be Bryan Hughes. I was 9 years old when Hughes arrived at St Andrews and I was at the point of a young football fans life where you start really understanding and considering what type of player you’d like to be and emulate at school. Hughes was the first player to have that impact on me. You couldn’t not be wowed by the control, the class and the confidence he displayed on what were horrendous pitches at the time! Check his goal vs Watford. That is why ‘HUGHES’ was the first players name I ever had on a shirt.
Great podcast, as always! Favourite player - Martin O’Connor. By all means, not the best player I’ve seen play for Blues (Dugarry, Forssell, Carr, Ferguson, Jude stand out) but he was the leader in the team when I just fell in love with the club and optimised what we’re all about.
Jose Dominguez, the most exciting Blues player I’ve seen. Won a Portugal cap whilst playing for Blues before moving onto Tottenham and Kaiserslautern. Absolute quality, he’d be incredible in this Blues team
Dugarry. An iconic figure down the blues. I hope he realises the legacy he has with us. Honourable mentions for Stern John for that goal vs the villa and big Aliou Cisse
Great podcast guys. Always usually listen on spotify, but had to comment for the amazing prize to win! My personal favourite has to be Nikola Zigic. I come from a family of bluenoses, so being a blues fan was always a birthright, but players like Zigic made me fall in love with the team from a young age. From seeing Zigic score the winner after having a goal disallowed against Villa in the quarter final of the League Cup, to then scoring and winning the League Cup final against Arsenal will forever be one of my favourite, special memories - and finally a trophy for Blues (still the latest team in the West Midlands to win one ;)). Also fun fact, after leaving sixth form my first job was a waitress at the ICC. I remember I was selected for the Birmingham City end of season celebration (think it was around 2014) and I was Zigic's one on one waitress for that night. He was super lovely and kind, not fussy or egotisical at all about the food/serving (unlike some famous folk I have served in the past), and we had a giggle because I kept thanking him for helping Blues finally win a trophy!! Also special shoutout to Jude - although I won't select him as his time with us was probably too short, but I do believe his journey at Birmingham City is not over. I have a very strong hunch in ten years time (especially if we do manage to reach the PL as Wagner aims), he will come back home and finish his journey!
One of my favourite-ever Blues players was Diego Fabbrini - I remember skipping a uni lecture to go and see him for a signing session at the club shop 8/9 years ago Other than that, Robert Tesche is another obscure one for some reason...but Juke is my all-time favourite for obvious reasons, keeping the club from being dragged into the mire time after time without ever downing tools - like some of his teammates around him so often did
Seb Larsson for me; countless brilliant (and some very important goals), mazy run against Sheff Wed, humdinger against Spurs and of course his penalty against Villa after not scoring at St Andrews for 2 years!
Trevor Francis watched him when he made his debut, Christophe Dugarry my favourite all time french play from when he played for Bordeaux & watch him play for Blues was a dream come true KRO 💙💙💙
Favourite Blues player of all time is still Mikael Forssell. Still remember my dad running into the living room to tell me each time he scored in the 4-1 win against Spurs. Was gutted when he left.
Gary McSheffrey will forever be mine, followed him at Cov before and was amazed when we tried to and did sign him. Played in my position and always modelled how I played as a kid on how he played in that left hand side, not to mention that in that 06/07 season the level of finishing was unbelievable, the 2 goals against Baggies and the Preston hat trick are standouts. Love the pod guys, keep up the great great work! KRO
Stephen Carr was my absolute favourite as a kid, don't know how good he actually was, but I remember saying him score a free kick at home being right in front of me in what's now called Arthur's area and just gave me a wink right after it went in. As a child, I absolutely ate it up
Robbie Savage for me. Controversial due to the end of course but if anyone could lift a crowd, wind up the opposition and actually deliver a half decent ball then Robbie was your man. Ran none stop and gave his all when he was at his peak with us. Curve ball mention of mine was Mark Burchill the little Scottish striker we had on loan from Celtic. Can’t be classed as all time favourite but always had a soft spot for him and gutted we never saw more of him because it felt like there was great potential
I'm 29 been watching blues for about 20 years ! So I'd have to say my favorite player has to be.... The Juke ! Simply for his seeminly unwavering loyalty to the badge 💙
My favourite blues player of all time is quite obvious, blues wouldn't have won anything without him and I think I'm not the only one who misses him greatly, wonderful passer, fantastic attitude and an absolute bargain. Worked hard for the shirt week in week out. I'm gonna have to go with the legend Bernard Sun. Thank you Bernard for all the memories x
I always remember that Bielik performance v Wolves. He was phenomenal that night. Favourite blues player has to be Forsell. That 03/04 season, once it was shifted onto his right foot, you knew it was going in. KRO 💙
Does anyone remember matin O'connor scoring the winner in injury time against man city when they had took the lead very near the end of the game ? I do such great memory, so he's my favourite KRO.
My favourite blues player of all time is lukas jutkiewicz yes he's definitely not the best blues player of all time but for personal reasons he will always be my favourite the first blues player I got attached to and always rooted for he's always wore his heart on his sleeve for the club and is a true warrior for the club KRO
Joe Gallagher...🎵6ft 2, eyes are blue, big joe Gallaghers after you la la laa...🎵 superb centre half great character and still involved with kids football ⚽️
My favourite Blues player is Stephen Carr due to his story, coming out of retirement to then take us up, give us our record points total in Prem and winning the League Cup!💪💙
For me it will always be Bob Hatton for 1 goal. Q/F FA Cup at St. Andrews v Middlesboro. Just after half-time, corner in front of the tilton by Kendal, knock back from Gallagher & the reliable Bob Hatton nodded it in. 1 nil win and a very excited 12 year old going crazy like...well a 12 year old! PS Bob Hatton - also a true gent. KRO
The best 2 players of all time are Trevor Francis and Christophe Dugarry and I loved them both but my favourite Blues player ever is Liam Daish who I named my Son Liam after. So would love to win the signed photo of Christophe to give it to him… 💙 KRO
Favourite player for me - probably Steven Carr. Always baffles me how he was unattached as a player then came to Blues, won promotion, got us to our highest finish in the PL for years, then won the league cup as captain. So reliable and dependable. Best value signing also probably in the club’s history. Dugarry would probably be in second place though!
Can’t argue with any of everybody’s choices , 2 that haven’t been mentioned Jason Bowen , massively underrated and Ian Handysides who died at 27 , was usually played on the wing in the 80s but his preferred position was central midfield , played there 5 times and was man of the match each time , great podcast , cheers
Forssell is always a great shout for favourite ever player. So many great candidates tbf. For me, it will always be Benno. Ian Bennett, will always be my all time fave. Not only a great 'keeper, but also a right laugh. Great moment as a kid, at one of the "open days" the club would hold, being able to get players autographs in the Kop car park. Mum was queueing for Trev's autograph, me and my little brother went to get pictures with players. Brother taking a picture of me with him, he's got my bro marching backwards across the car park to get a "better picture". "Just a bit further. Bit more. Bit more. Just another couple of steps. Another couple. Bit more.."
Noel Blake for me. Boxing Day 1982. Enough said! Still loves the Blues even now.
Excellent podcast. My favourite player Kevin Francis.
Nigel Gleghorn, first dependable forward I remember when I started watching Bliued. Great podcast as always
He’s mine as well mate from when i started going down the blues in 89. I idolised him as a 9 year old back then
another oldie here....Francis, Latchford, Hatton and Gordon Taylor....what a forward line.....Bob Latchford my favourite!
Another super edition thanks again. Watching Jude from afar online from Brazil 🇧🇷 seeing the talent from his first to last game has to make him my favorite Blues player. Home grown too makes him super special KRO. I missed watching Trevor sadly!
As life long Blues Fan of many years, I have seen and admired scores of Blues players.
But my all time favorite has to be the magical Bertie Auld, who was not only a great player, he was a real character.
Favourite player down the Blues since I've been going down since 1997 was Barry Ferguson, he made the game look so easy & did everything with class.
Shame we didn't get him earlier on but he was a gifted midfielder even in his advancing years.
Barry Ferguson was a class act
Favourite player, for me, has to be Geoff Horsfield. The 02-03 derbies against Villa from scoring at the St. Andrews fixture, nicking to ball off Enckelman to score in the reverse fixture to actually playing in goal after Vaesen went off injured, and keeping a clean sheet! Not to mention all the great work he's done off the pitch. True Blues legend.
Loads of favourites over the years but the most gifted and skilful player I’ve seen in the last 50 years gets my vote - Jose Dominguez. The game is all about entertainment and he put on a show for us when he pulled on the shirt.
Juke is my favourite! Embodies everything you want in a player and did us proud through some tough years, playing under 67 different managers
Paul Devlin, Blue Nose, my age, living the dream scoring goals and getting into the premiership and then slamming the ball in to beat Leeds for our first Premier League win
Great to see Bob Hatton getting quite a few mentions. So under-rated, but such an integral part of that legendary Francis, Latchford, Hatton forward line. And how could anyone forget that Viva Zapata moustache!
I was tempted to go for Hatton, but I am somewhat biased…
Favourite player??
Paul Tait.
A lad from the streets of Brum, not scared of anyone no matter how big! A talent that didn’t quite realised his potential, but I’d have him in any team , skilful, tenacious and always gave 100%
PAUL TAIT💙 KRO
My first ever favourite at blues was Mark Dennis. tough, uncompromising and a left-back, like me. Although, I wasn’t tough and often compromised!😂 His passion and grit made him my favourite 🔵
Bryan Hughes - silky player, scored some great goals! Part of one of the best blues squads as well.
Favourite player is Trevor Francis. My dad used to sneak me under the turnstiles when I was 5, and remember seeing Trevor score, and the crowd roar, and been a Blues fan ever since.
Steve Claridge - he was the one scoring the goals when I first went down St Andrew's. Loved his low slung socks but loved his work-rate and never give up style even more!
Dugarry for me... Simply because he was the first player that I personally watched on the pitch and who wowed me when I started to go to more games with my dad.
My favourite blues player had to be Dave Langan. When I first started going to games as a child, he always impressed me with his overlapping runs and quality delivery. I just thought he was amazing! Such a shame how injury wrecked his career and then the tough times he had as a result.
Modern day favourite player - Maikel Kieftenbeld - loved his aggression and his big slide challenges, clattering Grealish at every given opportunity always give him extra bonus points - not to mention his screamer against Derby (A) and Preston (H)
Very hard to nail it down but it is probably Dugarry during my life time. Thanks for the podcasts over the last year Alex & Brian, always very enjoyable. Here’s to many more. KRO
Feels a cliche but I’d say Trevor Francis. As a kid at school seeing Francis break into the Blues team and score so many was the thing that really got me into Blues back then in the early 1970s. Also the excitement seeing him come back as our manager. In recent years up until he passed away I’d see him in Brueton Park in Solihull early on weekend mornings on his regular walk and he’d always say hello or chat for a short while.
Dugarry for me - that was my first season supporting Blues. Special player. Forssell a close second!
Really enjoying the pod, gents. Congrats on the year 👏🏻
My favourite was always Mikael Forssell, went a bit under the radar with Dugarry signing permanently etc.
But I'll say Upson. He oozed class. He was one of the best centre halves in the country when he played for us, and obviously represented England too which was a proud moment as a Blues fan
Upson and Cunningham were a class back two under Bruce
Favourite player Trevor Francis. I want to talk more about my favourite manager. Lou Macari. He invited me into the dressing room. Made me a cup of tea and spoke about football. Down to earth gentleman.
Feed the force and he will score! Definitely my favorite!
Favourite player, Bob Hatton, so important to that phenomenal forward line in 1971-2 promotion season.
Got to be TF for me. 15:51
My favourite player of all time is super Trevor Francis. From his first game to his last game over many, many seasons (September 1970- February 1979) A true Blue!!
Best blues podcast by a mile lads, I have to say for me it Trevor Francis was truly gutted when this legend died.
Mikael Forsell! 👑 I was fortunate enough to grow up throughout the premier league era, which then became an expectation for me. How that ideology came crashing down over the last decade or so. However, he was one of my idols as a young lad who adored the game both as a spectator and player throughout my youth. What a player!
The late and great Trevor Francis. I was one of the hundred thousand 😃at St Andrews when he scored those 4 goals against Bolton when only 16 years old. Gone but never forgotten. RIP superboy.
Trevor Francis easy decision saw his debut followed him all the way into management was Mr Birmingham city. Christophe second Frank Worthington 3rd the Mercurials of Birmingham.
Nigel gleghorn was my favourite as a boy. During quite a miserable era for blues Nigel was a decent footballer with a lovely left foot and to add to that he had that great goalscoring season getting on the end of many Ian Rodgerson crosses to head in at the far post. I remember picking up the evening mail one afternoon and despairingly reading on the back page that we’d sold him to Stoke for 100k what a miserable walk home from the newsagents that was!
Favourite player who sums up the spirit of our club. Robert Hopkins. Kro
I could probably name most of the 94/95 team amongst my favourites. Loved watching Steve Claridge bang in the goals , Mark Ward bossing the midfield, Daish marshalling at the back and Benno behind him, who I always thought was going to be pinched by one of the big boys. So many since: Bryan Hughes, Mikael Forsell, Seb Larsson, Le God, I still love Cameron Jerome.
When I heard you ask the question, the name that was always on the tip of my tongue was Michael Johnson, who was so solid for us on the journey back to the Premier League, but I’m going to nail my colours to the mast and say Dugarry’s strike partner, Geoff Horsfield. A big battering ram of a striker who embodied everything I loved about the fight, desire and heart we showed when we reached the Premier League.
Hi Paul, you're one of our winners, please contact alex.dicken@reachplc.com to claim your prize.
@@KeepRightOn thanks, email sent 👍
Kenny Burns - a fantastic centre-half, who was moved up front and then became an excellent forward for Blues.
Francis springs to mind Remember when I started watching Blues it was the old right back Ray Martin
Dugarry my all time favourite can remember him signing closely followed by Seb Larsson unfortunately not old enough to of seen some of the other greats I.e Francis, Hatton etc
Ive been watching blues for 39 years. Theres only 2 names ive ever had on the back of a shirt one was Trevor Francis and second was dugary, easily the best player ive seen play at st Andrews, ill never forget him popping out from behind the sceen with brucey when they announced him, hes my all time favorite player, and no im not just saying this for the poster, great pod as always gents
Would find it easier to pick a best eleven, so many favourites over the years since I’ve been going down since the early 80s. Going for Stan “the man” Lazaridis as he always got the crowd on their feet when he got the ball. Legend.
I have 3 for different reasons
1: Paul Devlin - first player that ever wow’ed me also the first player I ever met at a preseason game against Newcastle (you never forget your first)
2: Seb Larsson - free kicks, ‘that Tottenham goal’ and the solo goal against Sheffield Wednesday was the last game I saw with my dad before he passed, a memory I’ll never forget!
3: Martin Grainger - one of the most underrated players I can remember at blues. Tenacious, solid and a quality left foot.
Robbie Savage for me.
I know his end with us was acrimonious, and he was never the most skillful, but that man left everything on the pitch every time he played. Those first couple of seasons back in the prem were glorious and his energy and enthusiasm had me grinning every time I watched us play.
The man never stopped running, was a machine and could play as well. KRO
A far better player than a lot of people gave him credit for. His work effort gave him an extra edge and until his legs started to slow him down he was an excellent player who certainly didnt look out of place in the Premier league. Only thing that let him down was that when he lost interest in a club he became a bit of a cock... that said I certainly held no hard feelings when he left blues, prior to the final period he had put his heart, soul and body into every performance.
He was fantastic for us. No doubt about it.
Dugarry was my second favourite all time player. But old enough to remember TF. He was my hero. Still till this day my Auntie calls me Trev!😂 😂😂 Great show as always boys
For me it has to be stan lazaridis when I was a kid loved watching him charge forward .
Bryan Hughes. Adored the guy when I was a kid. Seemed to glide around the pitch effortlessly, and had a penchant for scoring absolute corkers. Especially his Bergkamp-esque goal against Watford.
Loved Bryan Hughes so much ability.
Great podcast guys!! My favourite blues player of all time is Barry Ferguson. Great player, very smart, comfortable on the ball. Felt he took us to the next level at the time.
Martin Grainger was my all-time favorite Birmingham City player because he embodied everything that Blues fans admire-passion, grit, and loyalty. His no-nonsense style as a tough-tackling left-back made him a fan favorite, but it was his heart on the sleeve attitude that truly set him apart. Grainger played with the kind of determination and drive that lifted the entire team, never shying away from a challenge, both in defense and going forward.
He wasn't just a defender; he had an eye for goal and was a set-piece specialist, which made him a constant threat. Some of my favorite memories are of him hammering in free kicks or penalties at crucial moments, giving us hope when it mattered most. His commitment to the club during his time at Birmingham, especially in those hard-fought battles in the Championship, made him a true Blue legend.
Above all, it was his leadership and dedication that left a lasting impact on me as a fan. He wasn’t the flashiest player, but his consistency and desire to give everything for the shirt is what made him special. For me, Grainger will always represent the spirit of Birmingham City-fighting against the odds with passion and determination.
Great pod as always guys. So many players who embraced the badge rather than ability as that means so much more (as crystalised by Bacuna). Just cant choose one. If i wad forced, and given my own criteria I'd be thinking Stephen Carr. Remember so many wingers wondering 'How did he take the ball from me'. The joy
I became a blues fan back in 95 as a 10 year old where I fell in love with the fans on an away day vs Cambridge utd away and saw the great Jose Dominguez who was very exciting. Although perhaps not my favourite player of all time but someone who fell under the radar for me was Christian Benitez who done an incredible job of linking up midfield to the strikers and turned Cameron Jerome into a prolific goalscorer that year. He was a big part of what ended up being the most successful season in recent Birmingham history. I only wish we had more seasons with him and more years to celebrate with him off the field. KRO
Goodness me, what a question. There are so many that have brought joy over the decades. BUT with a nod to all the guys already mentioned, my favourite was Fred Pickering. The stooped header against Chelsea in FACup6 and the x2 cannon blasts against The Baggies at Villa Park in FACupSF. Sadly both blasts hit the crossbar.
Again great talk, having seen Trevor Francis score 4 goals against Bolton his is my favourite kro
Mark ward was brilliant he ran the midfield the year we went up from league 1 great memory's of him great podcast KRO
Barry Ferguson for me. Technically gifted and made the game look so easy.
Fred Pickering and Stan Lynn were great, and I was there for Trevor's first goal.
Got to be Robbie Savage!
Even despite how it ended for him at Blues.
Dugarry a close second…
Mikael Forssell for me such a quality elite finisher. The guy had ice in his veins. Top player. KRO
My favourite player has to be Nikola Zigic, the four goals against leeds, the goal to kick us off in the famous comeback at Bolton or the one to kick us off in the slightly more famous, and with a bit more grandeur, against Arsenal in the League cup final. A top player for us and one that has certainly earned their place in the history books for all bluenoses (oh, and we could never forget 'Like a light bulb.')
My Favourite Blues player of all time has to be Martin Grainger, never easy having to pick one out! I loved his passion, his aggression and his desire to win along with a magical left foot! KRO
My favorite player is Stan Lazaridis, direct, quick, and scored goals, especially against the Villa
Mikael Forssell. Always felt he was going to score when the ball was at his feet.
So many to choose from, but Sebastian Larsson. Enjoying the podcast, KRO!
It was a great win over Wrexham, and I am glad the pod cast got recognition on Sky! It's been enjoyable listening to the podcast over the years and I've enjoyed every listen (despite the football being spoken about at times). I hope to see Dugarry on the pod soon. My favourite player of all time has to be big Zigi! He sometimes couldn't hit a garden shed, but boy did he score in some big games for the club. Arsenal, SOTV and the last day against Bolton. Couldn't not love the guy. KRO!
Loved the big man!
Favourite Blues player has to be Bryan Hughes. I was 9 years old when Hughes arrived at St Andrews and I was at the point of a young football fans life where you start really understanding and considering what type of player you’d like to be and emulate at school. Hughes was the first player to have that impact on me. You couldn’t not be wowed by the control, the class and the confidence he displayed on what were horrendous pitches at the time! Check his goal vs Watford. That is why ‘HUGHES’ was the first players name I ever had on a shirt.
In today's football he'd be worth loads with that ability he had.
Great podcast, as always! Favourite player - Martin O’Connor. By all means, not the best player I’ve seen play for Blues (Dugarry, Forssell, Carr, Ferguson, Jude stand out) but he was the leader in the team when I just fell in love with the club and optimised what we’re all about.
Jose Dominguez, the most exciting Blues player I’ve seen. Won a Portugal cap whilst playing for Blues before moving onto Tottenham and Kaiserslautern. Absolute quality, he’d be incredible in this Blues team
Dugarry. An iconic figure down the blues. I hope he realises the legacy he has with us. Honourable mentions for Stern John for that goal vs the villa and big Aliou Cisse
Hi Dan, you're one of our winners! Please email alex.dicken@reachplc.com to claim your prize.
For my life time my favourite player would be forssell all day but ile pick bryan hughes what a player
Great podcast guys. Always usually listen on spotify, but had to comment for the amazing prize to win! My personal favourite has to be Nikola Zigic. I come from a family of bluenoses, so being a blues fan was always a birthright, but players like Zigic made me fall in love with the team from a young age. From seeing Zigic score the winner after having a goal disallowed against Villa in the quarter final of the League Cup, to then scoring and winning the League Cup final against Arsenal will forever be one of my favourite, special memories - and finally a trophy for Blues (still the latest team in the West Midlands to win one ;)). Also fun fact, after leaving sixth form my first job was a waitress at the ICC. I remember I was selected for the Birmingham City end of season celebration (think it was around 2014) and I was Zigic's one on one waitress for that night. He was super lovely and kind, not fussy or egotisical at all about the food/serving (unlike some famous folk I have served in the past), and we had a giggle because I kept thanking him for helping Blues finally win a trophy!!
Also special shoutout to Jude - although I won't select him as his time with us was probably too short, but I do believe his journey at Birmingham City is not over. I have a very strong hunch in ten years time (especially if we do manage to reach the PL as Wagner aims), he will come back home and finish his journey!
Louie Donawa my favourite. Had the pleasure to meet him in a pub in my home town great player
Robbie Savage for me. Never stopped grafting every minute he was in the pitch and he got Dublin sent off as a bonus!
One of my favourite-ever Blues players was Diego Fabbrini - I remember skipping a uni lecture to go and see him for a signing session at the club shop 8/9 years ago
Other than that, Robert Tesche is another obscure one for some reason...but Juke is my all-time favourite for obvious reasons, keeping the club from being dragged into the mire time after time without ever downing tools - like some of his teammates around him so often did
Seb Larsson for me; countless brilliant (and some very important goals), mazy run against Sheff Wed, humdinger against Spurs and of course his penalty against Villa after not scoring at St Andrews for 2 years!
Stan Lazaridis Just loved watching him play.
Loved his free kick against Fulham when he first joined.
Mark Ward and Mikael Forssell and Robbie Savage brilliant players for Blues.
Trevor Francis watched him when he made his debut, Christophe Dugarry my favourite all time french play from when he played for Bordeaux & watch him play for Blues was a dream come true KRO 💙💙💙
Favourite Blues player of all time is Geoff Horsfield, simply for his goals v Villa!!
Favourite all time Player- Trevor Francis (favourite Premiership Years Christophe Dugarry - favourite player in squad today Mark Leonard)
Favourite Blues player of all time is still Mikael Forssell. Still remember my dad running into the living room to tell me each time he scored in the 4-1 win against Spurs. Was gutted when he left.
Jon macarthy gave all for team, came back from leg breaks and players loved him. Umdrrappreciated at the time.
"Hoppy " Robert Hopkins has always been my hero, true bluenose getting to play for his club, and always giving everything is hard to top kro guys
Favourite blues player of all time has got to be Žigić, made me fall in love with the blues as a youngster
Gary McSheffrey will forever be mine, followed him at Cov before and was amazed when we tried to and did sign him. Played in my position and always modelled how I played as a kid on how he played in that left hand side, not to mention that in that 06/07 season the level of finishing was unbelievable, the 2 goals against Baggies and the Preston hat trick are standouts. Love the pod guys, keep up the great great work! KRO
He was unstoppable in that promotion season. Great pick
Has to be Trevor Francis for obvious reasons but I also loved Frank Worthington, a real character and a genius on the pitch
Stephen Carr was my absolute favourite as a kid, don't know how good he actually was, but I remember saying him score a free kick at home being right in front of me in what's now called Arthur's area and just gave me a wink right after it went in. As a child, I absolutely ate it up
Robbie Savage for me. Controversial due to the end of course but if anyone could lift a crowd, wind up the opposition and actually deliver a half decent ball then Robbie was your man. Ran none stop and gave his all when he was at his peak with us. Curve ball mention of mine was Mark Burchill the little Scottish striker we had on loan from Celtic. Can’t be classed as all time favourite but always had a soft spot for him and gutted we never saw more of him because it felt like there was great potential
Burchill was a monster off the bench, was rapid and could finish as well.
I'm 29 been watching blues for about 20 years ! So I'd have to say my favorite player has to be.... The Juke ! Simply for his seeminly unwavering loyalty to the badge 💙
JUKESSSSSS
My favourite blues player of all time is quite obvious, blues wouldn't have won anything without him and I think I'm not the only one who misses him greatly, wonderful passer, fantastic attitude and an absolute bargain. Worked hard for the shirt week in week out. I'm gonna have to go with the legend Bernard Sun. Thank you Bernard for all the memories x
I always remember that Bielik performance v Wolves. He was phenomenal that night.
Favourite blues player has to be
Forsell. That 03/04 season, once it was shifted onto his right foot, you knew it was going in.
KRO 💙
Love the pod guys, my favourite player is probably Zigic, have to give a mention to Lee Bowyer, Seb Larsson and Mikel Forsell too though!!
Does anyone remember matin O'connor scoring the winner in injury time against man city when they had took the lead very near the end of the game ? I do such great memory, so he's my favourite KRO.
Great memory that one. Always thought he was underrated O'connor would put in a massive shift every game.
Been a blues fan 70 years so there’s loads I could pick, I’m going for Bertie Auld loved him to bits
My favourite blues player of all time is lukas jutkiewicz yes he's definitely not the best blues player of all time but for personal reasons he will always be my favourite the first blues player I got attached to and always rooted for he's always wore his heart on his sleeve for the club and is a true warrior for the club KRO
So many in the years i have followed the Blues but i think Howard Kendall deserves a mention
Joe Gallagher...🎵6ft 2, eyes are blue, big joe Gallaghers after you la la laa...🎵 superb centre half great character and still involved with kids football ⚽️
My favourite Blues player is Stephen Carr due to his story, coming out of retirement to then take us up, give us our record points total in Prem and winning the League Cup!💪💙
Loved seeing Carr run down the line like he was still 18 ha what a player.
@@sammullett17yeah he was great while he lasted lol
For me it will always be Bob Hatton for 1 goal. Q/F FA Cup at St. Andrews v Middlesboro.
Just after half-time, corner in front of the tilton by Kendal, knock back from Gallagher & the reliable Bob Hatton nodded it in. 1 nil win and a very excited 12 year old going crazy like...well a 12 year old!
PS Bob Hatton - also a true gent. KRO
The best 2 players of all time are Trevor Francis and Christophe Dugarry and I loved them both but my favourite Blues player ever is Liam Daish who I named my Son Liam after. So would love to win the signed photo of Christophe to give it to him… 💙 KRO
Favourite player for me - probably Steven Carr. Always baffles me how he was unattached as a player then came to Blues, won promotion, got us to our highest finish in the PL for years, then won the league cup as captain. So reliable and dependable. Best value signing also probably in the club’s history. Dugarry would probably be in second place though!
Can’t argue with any of everybody’s choices , 2 that haven’t been mentioned Jason Bowen , massively underrated and Ian Handysides who died at 27 , was usually played on the wing in the 80s but his preferred position was central midfield , played there 5 times and was man of the match each time , great podcast , cheers
Forssell is always a great shout for favourite ever player. So many great candidates tbf.
For me, it will always be Benno. Ian Bennett, will always be my all time fave. Not only a great 'keeper, but also a right laugh.
Great moment as a kid, at one of the "open days" the club would hold, being able to get players autographs in the Kop car park. Mum was queueing for Trev's autograph, me and my little brother went to get pictures with players.
Brother taking a picture of me with him, he's got my bro marching backwards across the car park to get a "better picture". "Just a bit further. Bit more. Bit more. Just another couple of steps. Another couple. Bit more.."
Seb Larsson! that run from his own half, what a player! and the Pen against the vile