Nafti by name . . .
It's been interesting to see the reaction to the interview with Mehdi Nafti post-Reading.
The concensus of opinion is that here is a man who cares passionately about his club, who has professional pride and talks a lot of sense.
Not for Nafti are glib throwaway phrases. When he speaks, he does so after thinking for a few moments about the questions put to him.
When I asked him for a word as he made his way from the dressing room areas past the waiting media on Saturday, it was not a problem.
It's never too much trouble for Nafti, and he understands the value and importance of communicating to supporters via the Birmingham Mail, especially after a defeat.
During the interview, you could sense his mind whirring, his frustration at Blues plight. But he was always going to tell it like he saw it regardless.
There were a few home truths in there, but so what? Honesty is refreshing and it can help focus minds.
Nafti's language skills are well known. A speaker of English, French, Spanish and Arabic (although he does have trouble with Scottish), he acts as unofficial interpreter and aide to Blues foreign players when they arrive.
He's also one of the senior pros who will address squad issues with the manager, should they arise, along with Maik Taylor and Damien Johnson.
And considering he is Tunisian, although born and raised in Toulouse, France, his sense of humour is very British and near the knuckle.
One of his favourite lines when introducing himself is 'Hello, I am a Muslim - but not a terrorist!'.
And any member of the PC brigade is advised not to be within earshot when he trades insults with physiotherapist Neil McDiarmid.
Nafti's contract expires in the summer and Alex McLeish is keen to take up the option Blues hold.
Much will depends on what division Blues find themselves in, I guess.
He has had his best season since signing from Racing Santander and if it transpires that he does exit, then aside from his measured and efficient football, Blues would also be losing a dressing room character.
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Colin Tattum
Mail man Colin Tattum’s view of what’s going on at Birmingham City FC.
"dressing room"?
Whatever happened to "changing room"?
Tatts
What has been Damien Johnson's reaction to being left on the bench on Saturday at Reading considering he is the captain.
Is there a chance of krystian pearce being recalled from port vale to bolster the backline particularly due to tiny's lack of match sharpness and ridgewell's suspension
Craig
Hi Craig,
I don't think Jonty was too happy, as you would expect, but Eck wanted to get some fresh legs in midfield and I don't think Jonty was as effective as he has been against Newcastle and the breather might do him good. As for Pearce, I don't think that will happen. He needs to get experience on loan, and it has done him the world of good. It would be unfair on him as well if he was suddenly thrown into a PL relegation battle. I take the point re Tiny, who looked rusty in the reserves. Eck has the option of Kelly at centre half or Queudrue, and Schmitz is still about the place don't forget!
Donde Esta el Bar?
Veinte ocho cervezas y dos chasers por favor
(just a few spanish words i picked up mebbes)