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.Hleb has struggled for fitness since his temporary switch from Barcelona in August and has failed to make a significant contribution.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. Show us what you're made of: Birmingham boss Alex McLeish has issued a challenge to struggling HlebMcLeish said: 'Alexander wasn't happy at not playing and I was delighted he wasn't happy.'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.'He should be wanting to maintain his reputation as a top-class player, a world-class player.'McLeish added: 'He started to look like the player we know he can be when he came on at Man City. Damp squib: Hleb has yet to shine during his loan switch from Barcelona'We have to get him top fit. He's had injuries, he's missed training.'He's a guy who has got to be in our team most weeks, unless I do something tactically.'But he can bring a level where it can help us create chances.'  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

Source: Daily_Mail