Alex McLeish believes the Birmingham supporters have a massive role to play in the club's battle to survive in the Premier League.Nearly 5,000 Blues fans backed the team during Saturday's clash with Wigan at the JJB Stadium despite the club's current precarious position.

And McLeish is looking for the same sort of response when City take on high-flying Everton in Saturday's home encounter.

The Blues boss said: "The fans have been tremendous ever since I came here, both home and away. Once again they were right behind us at the JJB Stadium.

"Those who travelled gave us such tremendous support despite the result. The atmosphere at home is always great too - and I have no doubt it will be the same when Everton arrive on Saturday.

"I know the players get a lift and an energy when the supporters are right behind them and are singing as loud as they can.

"I'm sure St.Andrew's is going to be a very noisy place to come Saturday afternoon."

McLeish is looking for Blues to continue their impressive home form when they tackle David Moyes' side and ensure they remain clear of fourth from bottom Bolton.

He said: "Since I came here our home performances have generally been very good and the only defeat was a single goal one to Chelsea when we could have got something from the game.

"Maybe we haven't got the points on the board we deserve but there have been some excellent showings like in the wins against Tottenham and in the last home game with Manchester City.

"We have to strive to attain those levels again."

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