Alex McLeish has hailed James McFadden as a bargain after the striker’s £5 million January move from Everton.

The Scotland international has been in impressive form and scored both goals as Birmingham claimed an unlikely point against league leaders Arsenal on Saturday.

And with transfer fees for Premier League players going through the roof, McLeish is adamant he has hit the jackpot with McFadden.

McLeish said: “Unfortunately in The Premier League when you ask about a player, the asking price normally starts at £4 million and then goes upwards. That is the league we are in and the big money that is involved in The Premier League. But I have to say that James is already looking worth every penny. He gave Arsenal some real problems last weekend. It was a terrific performance by him. He has brought something different to the team. He has brought a bit of quality in the last third and I think the players are responding to that as well. He’s got a great touch and creativity but he’s also got great energy and he chases all over the place and harasses defences right to the final whistle.

“That is brilliant commitment to have. The fans love that and team-mates will be inspired by that as well.”