Manchester United youngster Hannibal Mejbri knows a spell in the Championship is what he needed for his career.

The central midfielder is earning his stripes at Birmingham City this season.

The 20-year-old did play some first team games for United last term, but is now getting regular playing time.

"Now if someone kicks me I have to kick them back!" Hannibal joked to Sky Sports when asked about the physicality of the Championship.

"No, I have to stay in the game and show my quality first. If someone kicks you it is no problem. You have to forget and keep going.

"I think I have some good technical ability and I can play some good passes. I see things maybe earlier than some other players. But since I am in the Championship, I have seen that I need to work on my physical capabilities. It is making me a better player.

"As a Championship No 8 you have to contest the second balls. You don't really see this dirty work as much in the Premier League, but it is really important in the Championship. If you don't pick up those second balls or win your duels you can feel it straight away."