Tony Mowbray reveals how Tom Wagner convinced him to choose Birmingham City over 'other avenues'

Tony Mowbray has revealed he had offers from elsewhere before deciding to join Birmingham City as the club's new manager.

The 60-year-old, speaking in his first press conference at Birmingham City Elite Performance and Innovation Centre, went into detail about the process by which he was appointed as the third Blues boss in the space of just four months.

"I was enjoying Christmas at home, me and the missus we were planning on going to New York in the new year and a call came – I explored it. I had one or two calls," Mowbray said, recalling the first conversations he had with Blues owner Tom Wagner.

"I’ve explored a few avenues but this was so exciting. The owner phoned me, I don’t know how many interviews he has done but you can’t not be impressed with the enthusiasm, drive and plans he has got.

"I have been in football a long time and Birmingham City in my mind is a big city club, the second biggest city in the country. I understand other clubs in the city are doing well but the opportunity to get Birmingham City back in the big time – here I am trying to help this club on its journey," Mowbray continued.

Mowbray empathetic for Wayne Rooney

The new manager is delighted to be back in the West Midlands, a place he has called home on several occasions from his experiences at West Bromwich Albion and Coventry City. He knows the hardship of football coaching, though, and had a few words for his predecessor, Wayne Rooney, following a premature Blues departure.

“I’m pretty sure Wayne will be hurting at the moment. When you sacrifice so much, you move away from home, move into an apartment and don’t see your wife and kids for weeks on it. It’s really tough. I’ve felt that and know what it’s like. My job is to work with this group of players and reassure them. I feel as if they’re listening at the moment," Mowbray said.

It isn't long until Mowbray has his first fixture as Birmingham boss as Swansea City come to town on Saturday in the Sky Bet Championship. Blues then host Hull City on Tuesday for the FA Cup third round replay.