‘Entertaining’ winger risked as Eustace responds to injury crisis - Birmingham City predicted XI gallery v Norwich City
Charlie Haffenden
·2-min read
Continues to be Blues’ number one choice between the sticks.
Birmingham City are back in Sky Bet Championship action on Saturday afternoon as they travel east to face Norwich City at Carrow Road.
Blues are still in the top 10 but are without a win in four matches, while Norwich are one point ahead after losing their last two outings.
John Eustace has quite the selection headache this weekend due to an injury crisis, with Lee Buchanan, Keshi Anderson, Ethan Laird, Tyler Roberts, George Hall and Alfie Chang all out.
Has started life in B9 strongly and is expected to play yet again, especially with Laird still unavailable.
Switching to a back three might be tempting with Buchanan’s likely replacement, Emmanuel Longelo, better suited to playing further forward.
Making that change could upset the balance of the squad, however, and Norwich are a big threat. With that in mind, here’s the line up we think Eustace could go for.
The skipper is undoubtedly the first name on the team sheet for Blues.
Has settled in brilliantly as Sanderson’s counterpart in central defence.
Replaces Buchanan after the full-back rolled his ankle in training. Manny now has the chance to step up and make the place his own.
Really improved last week after a poor performance at Preston. Such a physical presence.
Sat out the draw with QPR but comes back into the side to reunite with Bielik and offer defensive solidity.
Oftens thrives when on the right flank as he has more freedom to push forward and create chances.
The entertaining winger still isn’t at peak fitness but offers a lot more threat than Oliver Burke based on early indiciations.
Works well as a playmaker just behind the striker. One of the best signings of the summer, without a doubt.
Starts ahead of Hogan, who hasn’t scored since August 26. Stansfield has been seriously impressive since joining on loan.
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