Source: Daily_Mail
Craig Gardner calls for Birmingham supporter's war cry to be played in dressing room
ShareBirmingham midfielder Craig Gardner wants an emotional speech made by a long-term fan to be played in the dressing room ahead of Sunday's clash with Tottenham at White Hart Lane. Gardner was moved by the words of Steve Teagle who received the club's supporter-of- the-year award at the annual awards ceremony at the NIA on Monday evening. Top class: Gardner (right) was impressed by the message delivered by Blues fan Steve TeagleTeagle has not missed a City game for 19 years and Gardner believes his words of inspiration should be heard again as Birmingham seek the win that should keep them in the Barclays Premier League. Gardner, himself a lifelong City follower, said: 'The speech by the fan was brilliant. He was top class. 'When he came on stage, none of our players could take their eyes off him. 'I just wanted the game to kick off immediately after that speech. 'I'm sure we can get a copy of the tape, speech, and play it before the game because it was top class. 'It shows you what it means to the fans.' In the red: Birmingham are 17th in the Premier League table ahead of Sunday's crucial round of matches Gardner will be available at White Hart Lane after missing the previous two games through suspension after his red card against Wolves. He said: 'I'm so glad I'm available for Sunday because I'll be reminding every player what we need to do, what it takes to stay in this league. 'I think after the season we've had, we deserve to stay in the league. 'The manager shouldn't have to say anything anyway on Sunday. 'If none of us players can get up for that game on Sunday then we don't deserve to be in the league.'I'm telling you now, I'll make sure that every single player is up for it on Sunday.' Gardner, Birmingham's leading scorer with nine goals, added: 'This game is our career, it's bigger than the Carling Cup final success. 'We need to go out there and give it every single ounce for this club.' Birmingham boozers anger McLeish as manager slams Foster and DoyleComeback King Ledley determined to play in Spurs' season finale against BirminghamBirmingham City FC news, features and opinion Explore more:People: Craig Gardner Places: Birmingham