"Our players can look at that and be inspired."

Blues travel to Watford on Saturday a point to the good in second place.

The chasing pack are clamouring to overhaul Blues for the runners-up automatic promotion spot, with Sheffield United and Cardiff City fancying their chances.

The Blades travel to sixth placed Burnley on Monday while Cardiff are away at Preston North End on Saturday.

McLeish was keen to stress the positive, the opportunity before Blues, rather than fear the worst.

And David Gold endorsed his view when he gave his speech.

"Prepare for the Premier League, " was his bullish statement.

Awards in full

Player-of-the-season: Franck Queudrue.

Birmingham Mail readers' player-of-the-season: Franck Queudrue.

Players' player-of-the-season: Lee Carsley.

Junior Blues player-of-the-season: Lee Carsley.

Supporter-of-the-season: Helen Wills.

Top goalscorer: Kevin Phillips.

Goal-of-the-season: Kevin Phillips, versus Reading.

Moment-of-the-season: Garry O'Connor, versus Wolves.

Academy player-of-the-season: Jacob Rowe.

Outstanding contribution to Birmingham City Football Club: Jack Wiseman.