"We cannot be another Bury" Birmingham fans in extraordinary attempt to inspire win over Sheffield Wednesday

The Blues arrive at the home of Sheffield Wednesday with one win in 14 matches and deep in relegation mire to take on a side above them only goal difference.

Birmingham manager Aitor Karanka is under pressure for his job amid huge struggles in front of goal, with his side having incredibly failed to score in eight of their last 11 matches.

Ahead of their trip to Wednesday, supporters on several Birmingham City social media groups have clubbed together to pen a passionate open letter to their players, asking for commitment to the cause and suggesting the very existence of the club is at stake.

Speaking after their midweek defeat at Millwall, Karanka told reporters that new £2m striker Sam Cosgrove is likely to miss the vital clash.

“He twisted his ankle yesterday,” he said. “I don’t know how long he is going to be out. I don’t think he is going to be ready for our next Saturday game.”

The open letter, which includes the image of a number of St Andrews icons including former Wednesday man Trevor Francis, reads: “Players of Birmingham City FC,

“We know it has been a tough season. We understand and can see your frustration but..

“THIS SATURDAY AGAINST SHEFFIELD WEDS IS A CUP FINAL! EVERY GAME NOW IS A CUP FINAL!

“You are all custodians of our beloved football club. It is time to dig deep and play for the badge. To play for us, the fans.

“We need leaders on the pitch on Saturday. We need you to stand up. You need to believe you can take 3 points and turn our season around.

“This is nothing less than a do or die game for Birmingham City FC.

“We were here before you joined the club and we will be here long after you have left. You are all part of a 146 year history and tradition.

“We want to see pride. We want to see passion. We want to see you fighting for every ball. Every Tackle. Every run.

“Every single fan would die to be wearing that shirt you get to wear week in/week out.

“We finish our shifts at work and turn to our club to provide some joy. We earn in a year what some of you earn in 1-3 months.

“This is our community. This is our passion. This is our pride. Remember that when you step out onto the pitch on Saturday.

“The game against Sheffield Weds is the turning point to save our season & given our financial position; potential to save the club. We cannot be another Bury FC.

“On Saturday we all stand with you from afar but whatever happens you have to keep on fighting, give 100% and leave everything you have on the pitch. Every single game.

“We are in this together. Keep right on to the end of the road.

“Over to you.”

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