Birmingham City: Sebastian Larsson reveals why he's the wing man for Blues

Jul 26 2010 by Colin Tattum, Birmingham Mail

Sebastian Larsson reckons he’s in tip-top shape as Blues’ preparations for the forthcoming campaign got off to a perfect start.

Larsson scored Blues’ second goal in the 2-0 win over Liaoning Hongyun, that left them with a 100 per cent record from their Hong Kong and China tour.

And for Larsson, whose future has been clouded for several months due to contractual issues, it represented a reflection of his condition right now.

“I do feel sharp, I feel good,” he told the Birmingham Mail. “Obviously pre-season is about getting more fitness and peaking when we play our first Premier League game.

“But I feel I’m in good shape and I’m pleased with my performances.

“I think what has also helped me was the two games I had for Sweden in the summer. I played 90 minutes in both and have just carried on from there after we reported back.”

Larsson lost his place towards the end of last season as Alex McLeish opted to try out Craig Gardner wide on the right.

On this tour, Gardner has played in his preferred central midfield berth and Larsson has been the flank mainstay.

He seems to have relished and responded to that; the old Larsson sparkle has returned.

The pressure of competition has also concentrated minds, not just Larsson’s.

“It is fierce,” he nodded. “You look at the midfield now and there are so many options for the manager.

“Michel and Craig have done very well in the games so far. They came in January and have had six months to settle, and we can see how desperate they are to impress and get in the team.