Birmingham boss Gary Rowett is wary of lightning striking twice against Albion at the Amex today.

Rowett's predecessor Lee Clark, now at Blackpool, inflicted a 1-0 defeat on the Blues in December.

Albion manager Chris Hughton guided Birmingham to the play-offs three seasons ago before joining Norwich.

Rowett said: "Let's hope the curse of the ex-manager doesn't strike us again, that happened up at Blackpool.

"It's a very different game, Chris is very highly regarded at the club, a lot of people have spoken to me about what a good guy he is.

"I have come across him a few times, he's a real gentleman and an excellent person."

Rowett has already been on the receiving end against Albion this season when he was in charge of Burton Albion.

They were beaten 3-0 at home by Sami Hyypia's Seagulls in the Capital One Cup.

Rowett's Birmingham are unbeaten in six away games since that Blackpool defeat.