Birmingham boss Hughton warns against Nathan Redmond hype

Nathan Redmond has made 14 senior appearances for Birmingham

Birmingham boss Chris Hughton has warned against unrealistic expectation over the prospects of Nathan Redmond after the teenager impressed in the Europa League win over Maribor.

The 17-year-old produced a terrific performance as Hughton's side overcame the Slovenians 1-0.

"He is a young lad still developing," Hughton said. "There will be ups and downs for him.

"He will come up against sturdy full-backs and not always get his own way."

Birmingham-born Redmond made his debut against Rochdale in the Carling Cup last season and has made 11 appearances this campaign.

He was denied his first senior goal by a post in the Maribor game but his display at least left home fans with plenty to look forward to - despite the team's Europa League exit.

"The Europa League will have benefited him with his development," Hughton added.

Redmond said he hoped Birmingham's impressive performance against Maribor could act as a springboard for promotion.

Hughton's side have struggled for consistency in the Championship and are currently 13th in the table, although they have two games in hand on most teams.

"We have got a lot to play for this season [and] we've got to concentrate on the league," Redmond said.

"It's a bit sad that we've gone out but we've sent the fans away with a happy vibe and we played well - now we can push on and get promoted."