'Fantastic' - Championship boss gives gushing verdict on Birmingham City decision

Birmingham City are up and running in the Championship after their 1-0 victory over Brentford

The man who so nearly guided Wigan to a Championship miracle last season believes Birmingham City have made the right decision in hiring Aitor Karanka.

The new head coach oversaw his first league match in charge of Blues on Saturday and guided his team to a surprise 1-0 victory over promotion hopefuls Brentford.

That represented a first victory in 17 attempts, spanning lockdown and seven months. Indeed it was the first time Blues have won without their supporters being present.

They looked organised and spirited and stood firm when Brentford searched for an equaliser in the second half.

And speaking after the match ex-Latics boss Paul Cook, who guided Wigan to a remarkable revival that nearly saved them from relegation despite a points deduction, commended Blues for ending Karanka’s 18-month sabbatical.

“They will be absolutely delighted,” Cook told TV show EFL on Quest.

“I think the run at the end of the season was a really difficult one for everyone connected with the club.

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“I think obviously there with the no fans coming in, the poor form, the lack of a manager for a period of time, the appointment of Aitor Karanka, in my opinion, is a top appointment.

“He is a proven manager at these levels and that was a fantastic result for them to start.”

Blues go to Swansea on Saturday looking for their first away win since February 11 at Barnsley.

The Swans were victorious at Preston on Saturday with a solitary goal from Wolves loanee Morgan Gibbs-White. Steve Cooper’s men did the double over Blues last season.