On the surface, Birmingham City is working tirelessly despite their recent relegation. Optimism remains high, thanks largely to Knighthead’s ambitious plans. The club has already begun recruiting to support new head coach Chris Davies, with four new players signed and more expected in the next six weeks.
Beneath the surface, significant resources are being dedicated to Birmingham’s esteemed academy. Knighthead is not just focused on immediate success but is also ensuring the club’s long-term future is sustainable and organic. There have been numerous recent success stories from the academy, but the club aims to improve its track record even further.
At the academy, now still based in Wast Hills despite the first team’s relocation to Henley, experienced professionals have been appointed. Mike Rigg joined as the academy’s technical director in April, and Mike Scott was brought in as the head of coaching. Scott, a Birmingham City supporter, has a strong reputation in the Midlands and has helped many players, such as Saido Berahino and Morgan Rogers, transition to first-team football.
Scott expressed his excitement about the project, mentioning how impressed he was by Mike Rigg’s initiatives. The immediate goal for Scott, Rigg, and the academy staff is to restore and maintain the academy’s Category One status. Achieving this status will help Birmingham attract top young talent and protect their best prospects from being poached by rival clubs.
Scott highlighted the importance of developing both players and staff. He emphasized that Category One status is crucial for preventing player losses to other clubs and ensuring that Birmingham’s academy becomes a destination for top talent. The new high-performance center at Wast Hills and the upcoming Birmingham Wheels site are set to elevate the club’s infrastructure to the level of top clubs like Manchester City.
Scott’s primary responsibility will be the academy, but maintaining strong communication with Chris Davies and his staff will be essential. Scott praised Davies’ modern ideas and noted the benefit of having Ben Petty, whom he knows well, as part of the team. This relationship will help streamline communication and coordination between the academy and the first team.
Scott’s recent completion of the UEFA Pro License course, alongside notable figures like Yaya Toure and Leighton Baines, underscores his qualifications. This achievement, combined with his extensive experience, positions Birmingham City well as they prudently plan for the future of the club from its grassroots level.