Chris Davies “Controversially Criticises Sought-After Birmingham City Star…”

Birmingham City boss Chris Davies has offered midfielder Paik Seung-ho some constructive criticism.

Davies wants to see Paik more directly involved in Blues’ goalscoring output as the South Korean is yet to net in League One this season.

Birmingham’s head coach is delighted with Paik’s participation in what has been a hugely successful campaign so far but admits the midfielder isn’t contributing enough in the final third.

Hugely popular as an almost guaranteed starter in the midfield double pivot alongside Tomoki Iwata, Paik has shown signs of top-end Championship quality. His awareness in the centre of the park combined with his passing range and ability to break up the play make him a reliable force.

Davies is right about Paik’s lack of goal involvements, though, and adding that to his game could help him reach the next level. It’s crucial he does as he often is given license to roam a little further forward, just as he was in the 1-0 win over Lincoln City at the weekend.

Within that system we set up in, Paik was more of an offensive midfield player rather than down close to Tomoki,” Davies told Birmingham Live after Saturday’s victory.

“He made one brilliant run and cross for the Taylor chance in the first half that the keeper tipped over the bar because, for his quality, he hasn’t got as many goals and assists.

“You see how sharp he is and how technical he is near the box and I don’t actually know why he hasn’t got more goals and assists.”

Paik highly sought-after for a reason

Transfer speculation around Paik was rife following Blues’ relegation from the Championship to League One. The likes of Leeds United, Sheffield United and Norwich City all made approaches but Paik decided to stay at St Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park instead.

The widespread interest was for good reason as Paik is not only a brilliant footballer but he’s also capable of playing in a variety of roles. Versatility is so vital in the modern game and having a player who can adjust to a host of tactical changes can be a huge help.

Delving into Paik’s overall attributes, Davies added: “I would class him as a six/eight type. He can play as a double pivot defensive midfielder but he has got the legs and energy to go and be an eight

“He does so much more than that (goals and assists). He gets a lot of second assists, so he might not get the assist but he gets the pass before the assist.

“I’ve spoken to Paik about that and said to him that’s part of your development, with the quality you have, to score and create more goals and he’s embraced that.

He’s a key player for us, I think anyone can see that, and he’s got a lot of quality.”