McFadden's goal at Bolton was his fifth of the season

Scotland international striker James McFadden says Birmingham City's achievements in the Premier League this season should not be underestimated.

Blues finished ninth under manager Alex McLeish in their first season after promotion from the Championship.

"We'll enjoy the season we've had - we've put a lot of hard work in," McFadden told BBC WM.

"Fifty points is a fantastic total and we'll go and enjoy the summer and come back fighting for pre-season."

McFadden's season ended with a consolation goal in the 2-1 defeat at Bolton, although he is not convinced he got the final touch after Chucho Benitez's penalty rebounded off keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen.

"Lee Bowyer's certainly claiming it, but I'll claim it as well, why not?" McFadden said. "I'll leave it to the dubious goals panel; they can decide.

"I usually take the penalties, but I thought it could be Chucho's last game so I thought I'd let him try. Unfortunately he missed the penalty but we followed up and got the rebound."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version