Birmingham City today confirmed Pep Clotet as their new Head Coach, with the Spaniard previously having occupied that role in a caretaker capacity.

The 42-year-old stepped up to the role following Garry Monk's exit, having worked as his assistant. And, he now has the job properly, with Blues confirming the news on their official site this morning.

Whilst it won't change the work he had been doing in any way, it is a significant moment for Clotet and shows that the hierarchy have faith in him to take the club forward.

Blues are 15th in the Championship and six points away from the play-offs ahead of the weekend trip to Reading.

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He deserves the new job title

Even though they are languishing in the bottom half, Clotet's performance in his role means he deserves this.

He was tasked with changing a lot at Birmingham and results on the pitch don't reflect the good work he has done on the whole. The team are playing a more stylish brand of football and he has also given youngsters a chance, with Jude Bellingham flourishing under his guidance.

It sends out a message to transfer targets

The January window is nearly here and Blues are expected to be very busy.

So, it's important that any prospective new signings know what they are signing up to. Some may be put off if Clotet was still a caretaker as they may be signing to play under him.

Of course, things can change quickly in football but it is not going to do Clotet any harm when it comes to convincing players to come to St. Andrew's.

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It stops any confusion

Finally, it should also put an end to any speculation about the future of the boss.

Reports emerged over the weekend suggesting that Clotet would be replaced by Mark Robins and it's surely not a coincidence that Blues have announced this just days later.

This ensures everyone, particularly Clotet, can concentrate on the job in hand.