David Cotterill’s petulance will be his parting gift

I’ve long been a defender of David Rhys George Best Cotterill. For a free transfer from Doncaster Rovers, he’s given Birmingham City a decent return since checking in at St. Andrews back in 2014.

For the last year or so, he’s taken a lot of stick from the supporters. Some accuse him of a lack of effort which, to be fair, hasn’t been far from the truth at times.

Cotterill has always been known for his dead ball and crossing ability – but also his unwillingness to ‘put a foot in’.

Inside the club, previous managers Lee Clark and Gary Rowett have described him as being a ‘handful’ around the club. Both rated him highly as a player which is why they have persisted with him for so long. And his assists can’t go without recognition.

Yet for too long now, the Welsh international has stagnated, his form has been patchy to say the least and the cat calls from the Tilton Road have become more regular – as have the sarcastic cheers when his number is held aloft by the fourth official.

Cotterill today tweeted his disapproval about the way Gianfranco Zola has told him he can depart B9. It’s all a matter of options but, for me, taking to social media to voice your discontent to your employers shows a massive disrespect and very little professionalism.

It’s time to part company with a player who has been a decent servant to the club but will never be seen as a true great. His petulance will be his parting gift.