FORMER Birmingham star Chris Holland believes Garry Flitcroft holds the key to Rovers' hopes of victory in tomorrow's promotion showdown at St Andrew's.

The Whalley-born midfielder knows more than most about what lies in store for Rovers in the Midlands after spending a couple of seasons under Trevor Francis at City.

And he insists Rovers need to win the battle before they win the war as they look to turn up the heat in the scramble for second spot.

"Man-for-man, I'd have to say Blackburn are the better team in terms of ability," said Holland.

"But it's not just about ability in the First Division, you need to have a bit of bolshiness about you as well.

"And, if it came down to a battle, then I'd have to fancy Birmingham because they've got the players for that.

"So whatever type of game it turns out to be will probably decide the result.

"Martin O'Connor is a key figure for them and, if he plays, then his contest with Garry Flitcroft will be crucial.

"I think whoever wins the battle in there will go on to win the game.

"But it should be a great match because both teams are in form.

"And, if Blackburn can score early, then you could see them winning quite easily."

Holland had high hopes of making a big impact at St Andrew's when he joined City from Newcastle United in a £600,000 deal in 1996.

But the emergence of O'Connor ultimately ended up barring his way into the first team and he finally quit for Huddersfield in February last year.

However, the former Darwen Vale pupil still keeps in touch with his old team-mates.

And he respects the job Francis has done in turning the success-starved Blues into a genuine promotion force.

"I'm pleased for Trevor because I think he's done a decent job," said Holland.

"He seems to have spent his money wisely and, after missing out on promotion over the last couple of seasons, I'd like to see them go up through the play-offs this time with Blackburn taking second spot.

"Most of the players who are doing well for him were there when I was.

"And he seems to have got together a good blend, particularly up front with Andy Johnson's pace and Geoff Horsfield and Dele Adebola's power.

"I felt sorry for Andy when he missed that penalty against Liverpool recently in the Worthington Cup final.

"But he could be a real danger up front tomorrow because he's very quick and, if he gets in space behind defenders, then he can be a real handful."

Despite Holland's past connections with the Blues, his allegiance will firmly lie with Rovers tomorrow.

But the 25-year-old schemer believes whoever ends up winning the race for second spot will more than hold their own in the top-flight next season.

"Birmingham have a massive following and, what with their stadium and everything, they have the potential to be a massive club if they get promoted," said Holland.

"But there's no doubting Blackburn also have a Premiership set-up, too, and whoever makes it have the resources to stay there."