Jordon Mutch

Alex McLeish says Jordon Mutch's loan switch to Hereford United will stand the youngster in good stead for the future.

The 17-year-old midfielder completed his move to the League Two outfit on Thursday and will remain with the Bulls until 2 January 2010.

The Blues boss believes Mutch, who spent last season on the sidelines with fractures to both his feet due to growing pains, will benefit from the chance of being given valuable first team experience.

"It is a good opportunity for him to go on loan just now," said McLeish.

"I think that will be good for him playing at a senior level every week. I am sure he will do well.

"It will sharpen him up and it will toughen him up as well."

Earlier this year Mutch signed a professional contract with Blues and McLeish has nothing but praise for the way the youngster coped with last season's injury set back.

He added: "To come through that, that kid, to do what he's done, sit in a wheelchair for two or three months - incredible

"He has got to slow down as well because he's come back from a potentially career-threatening injury."