Gary Rowett has called on Birmingham City fans to lend their passion to the team – having previously had it turned on him…

After having Birmingham City supporters turn against him in the past, Gary Rowett has urged them to show their support for the team.

When Rowett was in charge of Stoke City, that was in October of 2018, and he saw his team fall short of Garry Monk’s Blues 1-0. Not only did Che Adams’ victory annoy Rowett, though; referee Roger East’s performance in turning away a late penalty for the hosts also did.

The argument resulted in Rowett complaining, getting sent off, being banned, and being fined. The situation took on a lighthearted quality when he had to walk down the tunnel due to criticism from the Blues fans at the bet365 Stadium.

When questioned about the role fans can play in the remaining eight games, he recounted the story in an interview with Blues TV.

He declared, “The fans are crucial.” “I think against them for Stoke, because I didn’t think they were quite so crucial when they were booing me when I got sent off.” But pay attention, you anticipate that to happen because that is the audience and their level of devotion.

“I know if they see what they want to see on the pitch, which is a team that shares their passion, shares their commitment but also plays. Birmingham City has had some fantastic footballers throughout the years, people who are brave enough to take the ball in areas that maybe some wouldn’t, showing the quality that we need to show. We need a little bit of everything now.

“In reality, I would argue that we cannot succeed without the support of our followers; we cannot do this alone. If they can, we would really appreciate it if they could come to the stadium for our home games and cheer us on when we’re away.