Ethan Laird, the dynamic defender for Birmingham City, is not just playing football; he's embracing a challenge. With the Championship season on the horizon, Laird expresses a confident stance towards the competition. "Let them try. It's something that's always going to happen when a club has a buzz about them," Laird stated in a recent interview.

The Drive Behind Birmingham City

Birmingham City's journey last season was nothing short of spectacular, securing the League One title with a record-breaking 34 wins and 111 points. This success has set high expectations, not just among the fans but also within the team. The club's ambitious owners, Knighthead, are not just investing in players but are also revitalizing the city's sporting infrastructure, aiming for a swift ascent to the Premier League.

Media Spotlight and Team Spirit

The club's profile has skyrocketed, further amplified by their upcoming Amazon Prime documentary series, featuring NFL legend Tom Brady. This media attention brings a unique pressure, but Laird, with his experience from Manchester United, sees it as a motivational factor. "I believe there's a difference between hype and buzz," he explains. "Hype is around clubs where things could happen, buzz is because something is actually happening."

The Players' Perspective

Jay Stansfield, the record-breaking signing from Fulham, shares this sentiment. With 19 goals last season, Stansfield is a key player in Birmingham's quest for promotion. "Every young footballer wants to be a Premier League footballer," Stansfield remarked, highlighting the inspiring ambition of the club's owners.

Looking Ahead

The upcoming season opener against Ipswich Town will be a crucial test. Stansfield acknowledges the challenges ahead but remains optimistic. "The Championship's very hard, there are some very good teams coming down from the Premier League," he said. "It'll be a good benchmark to see whether we can challenge the best teams."

Birmingham City is not just aiming to compete; they are aiming to dominate, with a clear vision and a united team ready to face any challenge.