Roger Johnson believes he has justified his price tag since moving to Birmingham and is thriving on his first taste of Premier League football.

Blues boss Alex McLeish signed Johnson from Cardiff for £5million during the summer along with another Championship central defender in Coventry's Scott Dann.

But it is Johnson who has been involved in virtually every game since the start of the season in aiding McLeish to overcome an injury crisis at the heart of the back four. And he has quickly won over the City fans with his bravery and never-say-die attitude in helping his side make a reasonable start to life back in the top flight ahead of the clash with Wolves at Molineux.

Johnson told Press Association Sport: "When I first signed, I said it was a big step up for me and that every game was going to be different - and I feel as if I've done okay so far. We've kept a few clean sheets and it has gone fairly well. Obviously, one mistake gets punished at this level and positioning, knowing where the forwards are, is a lot different to the Championship.

"It is important to concentrate on where you are on the pitch and be aware of not losing your marker. But football is my life and I've watched the Premier League since I can remember, since it started. It is nice to finally get a chance at this level.

"You think `can I play there' and, touch wood, so far it's gone to plan and I've made the step up okay. It is the best league in the world. I am playing the best players in the world. Everyone was expecting big things, signing for £5million, and I don't think I've let anyone down so far so long may it continue."