Source: Daily_Mail
Alexander Hleb told to prove his class by Birmingham boss Alex McLeish
Alex McLeish has challenged Birmingham midfielder Alexander Hleb to 'maintain his reputation' as a top class player after an indifferent start to his loan spell at St Andrew's.[LNB]Hleb has struggled for fitness since his temporary switch from Barcelona in August and has failed to make a significant contribution.[LNB]He has been left out of the City starting line-up for the last two matches with Stoke and Manchester City and is unhappy with the situation.[LNB] Show us what you're made of: Birmingham boss Alex McLeish has issued a challenge to struggling Hleb[LNB]McLeish said: 'Alexander wasn't happy at not playing and I was delighted he wasn't happy.[LNB]'I'd hate to think that a player of his calibre at this stage of his career doesn't want to make an impact any more.[LNB]'He should be wanting to maintain his reputation as a top-class player, a world-class player.'[LNB]McLeish added: 'He started to look like the player we know he can be when he came on at Man City.[LNB] Damp squib: Hleb has yet to shine during his loan switch from Barcelona[LNB]'We have to get him top fit. He's had injuries, he's missed training.[LNB]'He's a guy who has got to be in our team most weeks, unless I do something tactically.[LNB]'But he can bring a level where it can help us create chances.'[LNB] Up your game, Alex! Loan star Hleb still not fit, says Birmingham boss McLeish Foster and Hart are the new Shilton-Clemence for England, says McLeishBIRMINGHAM CITY FC
