McLeish defends Taylor

Alex McLeish has defended Martin Taylor after the Birmingham defender committed a horror challenge on Eduardo at the weekend which is likely to see the Croatian out of action for at least nine months.

"As soon as the ref branded the red card I knew [it was serious]. The horrified expression of the Arsenal players and our players' horrified expression indicated it was a serious injury and that's why the ref reacted with the red card," McLeish told Sky Sports News

"I don't think it would have been [a red card] for the tackle itself. It was a mis-timed tackle, like a trip although Martin's studs have made impact with Eduardo's ankle.

"It is a tragic injury for the lad and certainly for his club.

"Having played the game at the highest level for 20 years I used to go in for those challenges. I do wince at some challenges, but I never gave that challenge a second thought.

"Eduardo nicked it by Martin, Martin dived in and Eduardo was too quick for him. Free-kick, red card, horrific injury and all hell kicks off.

"We have to rally round Martin because I think he is very disappointed about the player and he is mentally shattered by the whole experience.

"I think having such magnificent support from people up and down the country has helped Martin psychologically because the big fella could have been damaged from this as well."