Is Birmingham’s massive transfer window spend good for League One? Charlton boss Nathan Jones asked that question

Nathan Jones has admitted that Birmingham City’s spending in the summer transfer window has “slightly inflated” the League One market.

The Blues smashed the record fee paid in English football’s third tier with the acquisition of Fulham’s England U21 international striker Jay Stansfield.

Birmingham, looking to bounce back to the Championship at the first attempt, reportedly paid in excess of £10million for the frontman.

The Midlands outfit, who also snapped up Charlton’s Golden Boot winner Alfie May in July, are believed to have spent more than £25m this summer.

Asked if Birmingham’s outlay on Stansfield was good or bad for the division, Jones told the South London Press: “I think that was the third time they smashed the division record.

“It would be remiss of me to complain or anything – because we’re probably in a better position and spent more than a lot of others.

“It’s just the way of the world. I’m not sure Brentford are harping on about the amount that Manchester City and Manchester United spend in that division – and it is exactly the same in the Championship. It is the way of the world.

“Spending has slightly inflated the market. It is a more difficult market, in terms of people looking for different levels because certain ones were able to pay it – so they felt that was the norm.

“All it does is add some variation to the league. If we had £20million to spend I might not have spent it all – but I’d definitely have had a go.

“I’m not sure if it is bad, good or whatever. All you have to do is make sure you cut your cloth accordingly and spend your budget as wisely as you can – then you can be as competitive as you possibly can.

“What we have asked here, and the owners have been magnificent, is if we can’t go out and spend £50m on a centre-forward then I’ve asked them to strengthen the environment and certain things – pitches, recovery strategies and players that I know. Then we are collectively stronger.

“That is what we have tried to do and the owners have backed me magnificently.

“Birmingham are Birmingham – we have to concentrate on us.”

PICTURE: PA