Birmingham City boss Alex McLeish has insisted veteran striker Kevin Phillips will have a big part to play in the second half of the season.

Birmingham City boss Alex McLeish has insisted veteran striker Kevin Phillips will have a big part to play in the second half of the season.

McLeish was desperate to bring another striker to St Andrews but saw moves to bring Roman Pavlyuchenko and Kenwyne Jones fail.

The former Scotland boss has often partnered Cameron Jerome and Christian Benitez up front but believes Phillips will prove a vital squad member for the season's remainder.

“Any player worth his salt, and Kevin is one of those, wants to play,” said McLeish. “But there is every chance Kevin will have more game-time and make a contribution.

“Kevin has been a proven scorer throughout his career, is a proven goalscorer at Premier League level, and he will be eager to take his chance when it comes.”