Former Blue Explains What the Club’s Players and Staff Will Take from Pre-Season…read more…

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Former Blue Explains What the Club’s Players and Staff Will Take from Pre-Season…read more…

By Charlie Patrick

As the summer heat rises and the intensity of pre-season training builds, former Birmingham City midfielder Darren Carter believes the club’s players and staff are gaining far more than just fitness. With the 2025/26 campaign on the horizon, Carter — who came through the Blues’ academy and famously scored the winning penalty in the 2002 play-off final — says pre-season lays the groundwork for success beyond the pitch.

Speaking exclusively this week, Carter shared insights into what really happens behind the scenes during this crucial period, and why it’s often underestimated by fans and media alike.

“People see the games and the training clips, but there’s so much more going on,” said Carter. “Pre-season is where you build your identity — not just tactically, but as a group. It’s where bonds are formed, standards are set, and a collective mentality begins to take shape.”

With Birmingham City looking to rebound after a disappointing 2024/25 campaign, this year’s pre-season carries added weight. Under new manager James Rowberry, the club is placing strong emphasis on culture, discipline, and unity — all themes Carter says must be established early.

“James is coming in with fresh ideas, and the players will be absorbing a lot — new formations, different fitness demands, perhaps even positional tweaks,” Carter explained. “But the biggest thing they’ll take from this period is understanding what the manager wants from them — not just tactically, but in terms of professionalism and daily habits.”

Carter, who is now a respected youth coach and pundit, also emphasized the importance of pre-season for younger players trying to break through.

“This is their window,” he said. “Pre-season can change careers. A few good sessions, the right attitude, and you suddenly catch the manager’s eye. For academy lads especially, this is the time to step up and show you belong.”

The camaraderie that develops during team trips and training camps is another vital element. Birmingham City will spend part of their pre-season abroad, a move Carter believes will help tighten the group.

“When you’re away together, away from home comforts, it forces everyone to interact, to talk, to get to know each other. That chemistry off the pitch always translates onto it. Some of the best dressing rooms I’ve been in were built during those weeks.”

Beyond the players, Carter noted that the coaching and backroom staff also benefit during this time.

“They’re syncing up too — getting used to working with each other, refining processes, understanding how to manage workloads and injuries. It’s not just about players running laps; it’s the whole club aligning.”

As Birmingham City prepare to kick off their new campaign, Carter remains optimistic that the lessons and unity forged during pre-season will serve them well.

“Pre-season isn’t glamorous, but it’s essential,” he concluded. “You don’t win trophies in July, but you definitely set the tone for how the season will unfold. And if Blues can get that right, it could be a very different story this year.”

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