Garry can shape up

Jul 20 2008

ALEX McLEISH has backed Garry O'Connor to fire Birmingham back to the Premiership - if he can stay slim.

Brum boss Eck has told the ex-Hibs and Lokomotiv Moscow striker he's starting from a clean slate this season.

And he has been delighted by O'Connor's response.

Eck said: "Garry had an excellent stint of one-to-one training in Scotland over the summer.

"He joined us last year with a bit of puppy fat and handles.

"He was out of shape and that can take a while to put right.

"But he can write off last season off and come back all guns blazing. He's looking lively."