Birmingham City is challenged by John Ruddy so that Knighthead can “crack on.”

John Ruddy has found encouragement in the positive changes observed since Knighthead Capital took charge at Birmingham City last summer. He now hopes that the club can secure their position in the Championship, allowing the new owners to pursue their ambitious plans for the future.

Since Knighthead, led by Tom Wagner, assumed ownership from Trillion Trophy Asia, significant improvements have been made off the field at St Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park. Issues related to the stands have been addressed, sections of the stadium have been upgraded, and Blues have the added assurance of their new Henley-in-Arden base.

However, on the field, Birmingham City’s struggles have mirrored past seasons, with the team currently facing the familiar challenge of avoiding relegation from the Championship. Heading into the final eight matches of the season, they find themselves outside the relegation zone only on goal difference, still embroiled in a battle to retain their status in the division. Despite this, they trail 16th-placed Millwall by just four points, offering a glimmer of hope for a late surge up the table.

Ruddy has been pleased with what he has seen from Knighthead. Since joining the Blues on a free agent in the summer of 2022, Ruddy has made 81 appearances. However, his contract expires at the conclusion of this season. He thinks the owners will not follow through on their ambitious future ambitions for the club. Therefore, it is imperative that the Blues remain a Championship team come August.

“It’s been an interesting period at the club,” Ruddy stated. “Many of the initiatives and plans they have attempted to put into action have been constructive, and it is only natural that the less successful choices receive more attention when things aren’t working as planned.

“I think they are really intending to advance this club, and I think they will succeed in doing so. We simply need to see this season through to the end so they can get to work and turn this club into what they truly want.”