Gary Rowett's Birmingham City side have exceeded all expectations in the Championship so far this season.

The Blues currently sit in eighth position in the league and are just one point off the play-off positions.

It's safe to say that not many pundits expected Birmingham to be competing at the top end of the league, with budgets far bigger than their own, yet they still sit in the promotion race as the season moves into February.

If Rowett's squad continue the way they have done throughout the last few months, then a final position in the play-offs is perfectly feasible, as well as unlikely return to the Premier League after a five year absence.

Every successful side has unsung heroes, and it is about time they got given some recognition.

FLW writer Tom Percival takes a closer look at the squad at St Andrews, especially those who perhaps do not get the headlines that they deserve it.

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PRESS THE IMAGE BELOW TO SEE THE 3 PLAYERS!

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Paul Caddis

The ex-Swindon Town full-back is such an important component of a Birmingham defence that has been very solid this season.

Caddis arrived at St Andrews initially on loan, and then joined permanently for just £150,000.

The price tag seems like a steal now with Caddis offering defensive solidity as well as a goal scoring threat, having scored four Championship goals already this season.

It is easy to see why Rowett trusts the Scotsman to the extent that he does, and if the Blues can achieve their goals come May, Caddis will know that he had a major role to play in their success.

Stephen Gleeson

Gleeson's midfield partner Maikel Kieftenbeld has been grabbing the headlines recently, having been nominated for player of the month in January, but Gleeson's role cannot be underestimated.

The 27-year-old has been a crucial part of the first-team picture ever since he arrived at St Andrews 18 months ago, and is clearly a player Rowett completely trusts.

Gleeson has played 31 Championship games at heart of Birmingham's midfield this season, scoring three goals including a memorable strike away at promotion-chasing Derby.

Similarly to Caddis, if Birmingham were to reach the Premier League at the end of the season, Gleeson should be regarded as a key cog in a very well oiled machine.

Michael Morrison

The club captain perhaps doesn't get appreciated by non-Blues fans to the extent he deserves, but has a key role to play in a very tight defence at St Andrews.

Like many of his team-mates, Morrison arrived in the Midlands with a moderate reputation at Championship level.

He had played regular football at this level with both Charlton Athletic and Leciester City, but arrived at Birmingham with a point to prove.

The Blues aren't a team full of stars, but are extremely well-organised and difficult to beat, and the captain has to take a lot of credit for this.

His leadership skills are clearly crucial within the side, as well as his defensive ability, with 175 clearances this season.

If Birmingham can keep their skipper fit, they have a good chance of ensuring that this is a season to remember.