Updated 1:18am 6 July 2012

Lee Clark says Huddersfield experience will serve him well at Birmingham City

Lee Clark is welcomed to St Andrew's by Birmingham City acting chairman Peter Pannu
Lee Clark is welcomed to St Andrew's by Birmingham City acting chairman Peter Pannu

New Birmingham City manager Lee Clark believes he is a lot wiser and more knowing.

Clark’s experience in his first job at the held of Huddersfield Town will stand him in good stead at St Andrew’s he is certain.

Clark spent three years in Yorskhire and took Huddersfield to the League One play-off semi-finals, then the final.

Last season, with Huddersfield in fourth place, he was surprisingly sacked.

Simon Grayson took over and what was essentially Clark’s team triumphed at Wembley in the play-off final against Sheffield United, in a dramatic penalty shoot-out.

Clark wore his heart on his sleeve during the 178-game spell. And he says he is still burning with passion.

But a more cool, calculating passion perhaps.

He has reflected plenty since his dismissal in February.

“Lots of aspects,” he says, when asked what lessons he has learned

“I grew as a manager in that tenure.

“I’ve had time to reflect since February, I’ll be bringing certain aspects to Birmingham that I’ve thought about.

“One thing is the work ethic, desire and passion I have for the game.

“I’d say I’m a very buoyant character, passionate.

“Possibly animated – but that might change from the Huddersfield days, since I’ve got a little older.”

Clark, 39, insists that his Blues side will perform in a style that will please the supporters.

Chris Hughton won a lot of praise for the way Blues attacked and scored goals.

“Without a doubt I will aim to entertain the fans.

“My record speaks for itself. In my two full seasons at Huddersfield we were in third position in the league for the highest goalscorers, the next season we were fourth only behind the clubs who got automatic promotion and when I left in February we’d scored more than anybody else in the league.

“I like my team entertain – and be solid of course – but score lots of goals and get the fans on the edge of their seats and be productive.”

Clark was favoured by Blues’ board after they whittled down candidates to a shortlist of four.

Alan Curbishley, Roy Keane and Phil Brown were the others names under main consideration.

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