McLeish receives Phillips backing

Kevin Phillips believes it is vital for Birmingham's future that Alex McLeish remains as manager even if they are relegated from the Barclays Premier League.

Blues are only out of the bottom three on goal difference after the weekend 2-0 reversal at home to Fulham and will likely have to take something from their trip to Tottenham. West Ham this week sacked Avram Grant after their demotion from the top flight was confirmed.