David Murphy predicts a Birmingham City title challenge

Dec 2 2008 by Colin Tattum, Birmingham Mail

DAVID Murphy has predicted Blues will be a ‘big force’ in the Championship, and a real threat to Wolves in the battle for the title.

There is a growing rivalry between the sides, not just based on geography, which is bound to be reinforced by the FA Cup third round draw, which sees Wolves visiting St Andrew’s in four weeks.

The pair have been leading the way in the automatic promotion places for virtually all of the season, and Blues feel that they sent a message to Wolves with their performance on Saturday.

Wolves protected their six-point lead over Blues at the division’s summit courtesy of the 1-1 draw at Molineux, but Murphy argued that it wasn’t necessarily a secure margin.

“I think we’re well placed, second in the table, with a little cushion to those below us,” said Murphy, who returned to action after injury at Molineux.

“We are improving as a team. We didn’t start the season well but we were winning, which is obviously important. As you can see, we’re getting better with each week and I think our front players are clicking now. I believe we will be a big force in this league.”

Murphy added: “I think so, we did prove a bit of a point. Like I said, we’re getting better.

“If we can keep progressing as we are, we will be definitely be up there or thereabouts.”

Reading trimmed the gap to Blues to four points by beating Coventry City 3-1 at home last night, but nevertheless Alex McLeish’s men are in a good position, and the Royals visit St Andrew’s on December 20.

Compare to last season’s Championship battle, and the signs are positive.

At the same stage, Watford led the way on 39 points – Blues have 41 points, Wolves 47 – and eventual winners Albion were second on 35 points.

In 2006-07, when Blues finished runners-up in the Championship, they were third on 37 points after 20