Heskey Advises Patience for Blues’ Premier League Return
Former Birmingham City striker Emile Heskey has urged the club’s owners to adopt a realistic approach as the team prepares for its second season in the Championship. Speaking via Boyle Sports, Heskey highlighted the growing strength of relegated sides West Ham United and Wolverhampton Wanderers, who he expects to set the pace in the promotion race.
Birmingham City finished 10th in the Championship last season after a record-breaking League One campaign under manager Chris Davies. Davies has strengthened the squad by signing former loanee Jhon Solis on a permanent deal and adding experienced centre-back Dael Fry on a free transfer. Despite being among the bookmakers’ favourites for promotion, the Blues face stiff competition from wealthier rivals.
Wolves and West Ham Fancied for Promotion
“I think Wolves and West Ham will be strong,” Heskey said. “Wolves have signed Raul Jimenez and are going for it. It will also be interesting to see if Wrexham can have another successful run.” He added that the size of squads and wages at Wolves and West Ham mean they “really must go up,” predicting those two will set the pace in a “really tough league this year.”
The former England international, who was promoted via the playoffs with Leicester City, believes Birmingham City may need another season or two to return to the Premier League. “You don't want to put unjust pressure on the team to go up immediately if they aren't ready. Being realistic is key, and a couple of years seems like a fair timeline, despite all the ambitions of the ownership,” he said.
Playoff Format and Future Hopes
Heskey also commented on the extended playoff format introduced by the EFL. “I'm not sure if extended playoffs are the best way to go, but the EFL believes it will help. I was promoted via the playoffs with Leicester, and it's a fantastic way to end the season. Good luck to them. Birmingham will be back at some point, it’s a matter of time.”
The Blues will be hoping to build on last season’s solid performance and challenge for promotion, but Heskey’s words serve as a reminder that patience may be required in a highly competitive division.
