One of former Blues boss Barry Fry's numerous signings, Breen spent the whole of season 1996-97 at St. Andrews before moving on to Coventry and West Ham before joining up with the Black Cats. "I was only there for a season before I went to Coventry but I enjoyed it. Barry Fry made me captain when I was only 21 and I got into the Ireland team. "Birmingham's fans are passionate and vocal like Sunderland fans so the game should have a good atmosphere. It's a tough game for us but there's no reason why we can't win it."
Kenny Cunninghams Republic of Ireland central defensive partner has been plagued by injuries for most of this season but is targetting the FA Cup 5th Round tie between Sunderland and Blues at The Stadium of Light next month for a return to first team action.
"It's a good tie for us. We wanted a home draw and we've got it and the fact that it's Birmingham adds some gloss," Breen told his clubs official website.