CHRIS Hughton has insisted that it was not so much Nikola Zigic’s first goal for Birmingham City since Wembley that mattered, but his involvement for a whole match.

Of course, Zigic’s strike was the difference against Leeds United, securing another valuable three points for Blues.

Zigic had not found the net since heading Blues in front in the Carling Cup Final triumph against Arsenal. From then on he was struck down by injury.

The last game he started and finished was on February 15, a fortnight before the cup glory.

Hughton said: “The goal was important. But what’s more important is that he played 90 minutes.

“I think with Nikola it’s going to be not just about the goals he scores, but what effect he can have on the game. And if he’s not scoring can he bring others into the game? He’s the type of player who is able to do that.