Birmingham City: Craig Gardner is intensifying as a director of football – bbc.com

Birmingham City has raised Craig Gardner to become the new director of the football club.

After four years as a technical director, 38-year-old former Aston Villa, Birmingham City, Sunderland and West Bromvich Albion midfielder will be responsible for both the first men’s team and the creation of the Academy at the League 1 Promotion Club.

Gardner’s previous role was mainly the recruitment of players.

Blues Provisional CEO Jeremy Dale said: “Craig impressed all the time at the club, offering his technical advice in all aspects of the football department, more special our approach to recruiting players.

“I’m glad I was asked to take this new responsibility,” Gardner said.

“(Co -owner) Tom Wagner and Knighthead gathered everyone, not only the club but also the city.

“It is an honor for me to lead the football side of the business. We are building the foundations for future success at the highest levels. It has never been a better time to be part of the club or supporter of blues.”

Blues sits on top of League 1 – seven points clear with 18 games, left.