"I keep a lookout for Birmingham's results and I sincerely hope they go up this season because they belong in the Premiership," said Pennant.
"There seems to be a real steel in the team again after their bad patch and we'll be playing a form side. They've turned things around really well.
"I am very excited about coming back to St Andrews, but I'm not sure what sort of reception I'll get from the fans. I just hope it's not a hostile one."