Former Manchester City director of football Mike Rigg is to join Birmingham City as the ambitious Championship side look to revamp their academy.

The 53-year old is understood to be working his notice as sporting director with Al Jazira in the United Arab Emirates who are coached by Frank de Boer.

He will then take up a role to lead Birmingham’s academy recruitment.

Birmingham already boast a number of talented youngsters in and around their first team squad and have produced the likes of Jude and Jobe Bellingham in recent years. 

Wayne Rooney was recently appointed as manager of Birmingham City 

Birmingham City have won five and lost six of their opening matches, with three draws 

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Mike Rigg talks to Sone Aluko during Championship match between Fulham and QPR

They lost their Category One Academy status last year but have signalled their intent to regain that status under their new ownership with the hope of having it in place for 2025/26. 

Cook wrote a letter to parents of the club’s young players last week outlining their ambition to move forward while Rigg will be tasked with finding more budding prospects.

Rigg played a part in bringing Sergio Aguero to Manchester City and has held a series of senior roles with the likes of Burnley, Fulham, QPR, Blackburn Rovers and England.