On the surface, the cogs in the Birmingham City machine are working frantically. Despite relegation, optimism – due largely to the plans implemented by Knighthead – abounds. The recruitment drive in order to support Chris Davies has already begun with four new faces welcomed through the door, with many more expected in the next six weeks.Beneath the surface, however, Blues have been paying plentiful attention and committing resources in healthy amounts to the club’s heralded academy. Knighthead may be ambitious in the here and now, but they’re working to ensure that Blues’ long-term future is as self-sustaining and as organic as possible. There are countless success stories in recent years – both players who have departed and those who remain – but Blues want a higher strike rate.
At the top of the academy, which is still based in Wast Hills despite the first-team relocating to Henley, appointments have been made; the heavily experienced Mike Rigg joined in April as the academy’s technical director, while a head of coaching role has been filled, too, by Mike Scott. In doing so, Scott returns to Blues after 20 years, during which time he has built up a reputation in the Midlands as one of the top academy operators.
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