AN Areley Kings artist gave a Midlands football club the perfect boost before one of the biggest games in their history.
Hilary Baker painted a portrait of Birmingham City manager Trevor Francis, which was presented to him as he prepared his team for Sunday's Worthington Cup final clash with Liverpool at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.
Mrs Baker, who has a studio at St Bartholomew's Church, painted the former England international during sittings over a six-month period.
"He was a very relaxed and interesting man to paint," said Mrs Baker.
"He spoke about many subjects, not just football, including his love of travel and food."
The soccer idol became aware of Mrs Baker's work through her husband who is in charge of photography for the club.
Francis was delighted with the portrait but not Sunday's result - Blues came close to causing an upset in their first major cup final appearance since 1963 but lost on penalties after a 1-1 draw.
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