Lee Clark praises Nikola Zigic influence

Birmingham City manager Lee Clark has revealed that striker Nikola Zigic played an influential part in ensuring that the club avoided relegation to League One.

The St Andrew's outfit scored two late goals at Bolton Wanderers to retain their place in the Championship, and Clark has acknowledged the part that Zigic, who scored at the Reebok Stadium, has had during the closing weeks of the campaign.

The 41-year-old told the Birmingham Mail: "It's like he's been inspired about taking the club in the right direction, away from trouble.

"He's grabbed the lads, he's been very receptive in team meetings and very important in the dressing room. He has provided a good voice for the players in the dressing room.

"We asked the senior players to step up to the plate and lead, and we've been delighted with his response."

Zigic, who has scored 36 goals in 148 appearances, is likely to leave the club at the end of the season.