Tough guy Bowyer’s up for the fight again
BIRMINGHAM players have been warned to take no liberties with tough new boss Lee Bowyer.
Alex McLeish signed Bowyer, now 44, for Blues as a player and they have become friends.
But McLeish said: “Over the years you’ve seen Bowyer get involved in the boxing matches with his team-mates.
“Remember that one on the pitch at Newcastle?
“Once or twice it’s gone on in the dressing room as well. He’s a winner with a winner’s mentality.”
The Newcastle bust-up was in 2005 when Bowyer and team-mate Kieron Dyer had an on-pitch brawl during the game with Aston Villa.
In his 18-year, six-club playing career, Bowyer won only one trophy – with Birmingham when they shocked Arsenal 10 years ago and won the League Cup.
McLeish signed Bowyer from West Ham and says: “He was a leader in the dressing room, not afraid to voice an opinion.
“When you meet Lee he is very softly spoken and very calm. Different to his persona on the field.
“I left Lee out against Manchester United because I wanted him for the League Cup semifinal second leg with West Ham midweek.
“He had a bit of a rant, demanding why I left him out – this was in the dressing room and I pulled Lee aside and said ‘A bit of respect. Come and see me afterwards’.
“I explained I needed his legs for West Ham and he calmed down.
Bowyer invited McLeish to Charlton games when he was boss there but he has a battle to keep Brum in the Championship – with promotion-chasers Swansea and Brentford their next two opponents.
“When I saw the fixtures I put my hands to my eyes,” said McLeish.
“Rotherham having four games on Birmingham, is a bit concerning as well. But Lee will relish the challenge.”