‘Incredible’: NFL legend Tom Brady reacts to his Birmingham City visit

A round at The Royal George Hotel in Small Heath might have cost him £550, but that hasn’t put NFL legend Tom Brady off visiting Birmingham.

The American football hero has shared a heartfelt message on instagram about his ‘incredible’ trip to St Andrews on Saturday where he saw the Blues beat Leeds 1-0 with a late penalty. It was the Birmingham City co-owner’s first visit to see his team and he joined fans at two popular pubs ahead of the game in Small Heath - The Roost and The Royal George Hotel.

The owner of The Royal, Antoin McGroarty, told how he spent £550 on a round, including a £400 tip, saying:  “It was an Iconic day in Birmingham City football history. The past ten years have been doom and gloom but we have been taken over by new owners who have transformed the place and the fan base has been rejuvenated.”

Tom said: “From the moment we walked into The Roost, to the second the penalty hit the back of the net, your energy was humbling and a moment I won’t ever forget. Thank you to all the supporters for welcoming us into this family with open arms. To the players, coaches, attendants, and rest of the staff, congratulations on a well deserved day, but we’re just getting started. With everyone’s support and continued hard work this club can go special places. Birmingham is on the rise.

Sports have always had the most incredible impact on me and my family, as well as so many other families. It brings people together in ways that’s so many other things can’t. I look forward to the journey ahead!!! #KRO 🔵”