Chris Davies hails Birmingham City after Jude Bellingham joins celebrations

Chris Davies pays glowing tribute as Jude Bellingham returns for Birmingham City’s Barcelona victory

Birmingham City head coach Chris Davies reserved special praise for Jude Bellingham after the Real Madrid midfielder returned to St Andrew’s to watch Blues defeat Barcelona in a memorable pre-season encounter.

Bellingham’s appearance generated one of the loudest ovations of the evening as the former academy graduate watched from the directors’ box before receiving another warm reception when he emerged wearing Birmingham City’s new home shirt at half-time.

The night ended on a high for the hosts, who drew 2-2 before defeating a youthful Barcelona side 3-2 in the penalty shootout. August Priske and Jhon Solis were on target during the match, while goalkeeper James Beadle produced two crucial saves in the shootout to seal the win.

Speaking afterwards, Davies admitted it was a privilege to welcome Bellingham back to the club where his professional journey began.

The Birmingham boss described the England international as the club’s favourite son and praised everything he has achieved in such a short career. Davies also highlighted Bellingham’s decision to spend part of his summer break supporting his former club rather than relaxing elsewhere, saying it reflected the strong connection he still has with Birmingham City.

Davies was equally pleased with his team’s performance against the Spanish giants. Although Barcelona were without several senior players following the World Cup, he stressed the visitors still fielded a number of talented first-team prospects.

He praised his players for showing courage, intensity and togetherness throughout the contest, adding that the performance reflected the progress being made under his guidance.

Davies also took encouragement from the fact his side emerged without any fresh injury concerns, describing the evening as another valuable step in Birmingham City’s preparations for the new season.