Carsley urges Birmingham to spend

Carsley admits the Blues needs new players if they are going to have another successful campaign next season.

He said: “Recruitment is going to be vital. If the board think this club will finish nine or 10th with the same players they are going to have to think again – and drastically.

“This team will need improving, badly.

“When you consider that the likes of (Joe) Hart and (Christian) Benitez are loans, then that shows how big the job is.

“I think the gaffer deserves a big pat on the back. He reminds me very much of David Moyes at Everton – both are very thorough and know what they want.

“That’s a start but if this club is going to do anything then it needs to improve and that costs.”