CAMERON Jerome today revealed mixed emotions over his St Andrew’s exit and said he has joined the kind of side Blues should have become.
And Jerome, who moved to Stoke City for around £4 million on transfer deadline day, said Blues needed a change in ownership if they were to establish themselves properly as a viable Premier League outfit.
“Five years is a long time to spend at a club and it still feels a bit strange not being part of it at Birmingham,” said the striker.
“I thoroughly enjoyed my time there and I will always be grateful for the faith Steve Bruce showed in signing me.
“I’ve come across and worked with some really good people at Birmingham and we’ve had ups and downs, with two promotions and the Carling Cup win the highlight.
“I’ve always felt I’ve got on well with everyone there, all the lads I’ve played with and the fans, and although I’m now looking forward to a new challenge there is this feeling of regret.
“Stoke seem to be doing what I thought Birmingham would be doing. It’s exciting times at Stoke, they are taking steps in the right direction, strengthening the squad and looking to make further progress.
“That’s the regret. I wish Birmingham would have done the same and it’s the fans I feel sorry for in all of this because of what’s happened in the last six months since we won the Carling Cup.
“In a way, maybe starting all over again in the Championship, if you like, might actually help if it means new investors come in.
“I don’t know what the board are planning to do but Birmingham need people to take them to the next level and I don’t believe the current owners can do that.
“A lot of people are questioning them and all the talk is about the financial problems and the mess the club are in.
“It needs new investment and people with a good football background and, to be honest, Birmingham are the ideal club for someone to take on, it’s screaming out with the potential to be a top ten Premier League club.
“Birmingham have had the reputation of being a yo-yo club but they shouldn’t be. If they can get out of the Championship, have some stability, with the right backing they can be successful.”
