Struggling Birmingham City look to stop the rot against Reading

Birmingham City host Reading tomorrow evening in a bid to stop their poor run of form and get back to winning ways. They sit just three points above Rotherham in 22nd.

The West Midlands side had the opportunity to increase their gap on Rotherham but lost 3-0 in their latest encounter against Bristol City. They’re now winless in three, sitting above Rotherham who have four games in hand.

To compound matters, Birmingham City now find themselves in limbo going into their game against Reading, with widespread reports claiming Karanka has been replaced by Lee Bowyer following the latters resignation from Charlton Athletic. 

The change in manager is no surprise considering the Blues have struggled for most of the season. They’re the third lowest scorers in the division and boast the third-worst defence in the league. They also have the worst home record in the division, piling the pressure on the struggling side. 

It’s been a contrast of fortunes for Birmingham City’s rivals on Wednesday night.

The Royals have had a bright season so far following a few years of mid table obscurity. With Veljko Paunovic at the helm, they’ve found the perfect balance in their squad as they look likely to finish in the top six. 

Reading have also been productive on the road this season. They’ve lost just one of their last six away games and were held to a 1-1 draw by Nottingham Forest at the weekend and have taken 28 points on the road this season – the fifth highest in the league.

With the returning Yakou Meite back in the side having scored against Forest at the weekend, he will be looking to get on the scoresheet again against the team with the worst home record in the division. 

For Birmingham City, it’s a must-win to ensure they keep daylight between themselves and the bottom three. For Reading, a win will boost their top-six prospects going into the final 10 games of the season.  

Team news

Birmingham City could be without winger Ivan Sanchez who picked up a knock in the defeat to Bristol City. 

Yan Valery, Gary Gardner, and Jonathan Leko are all in contention for recalls to the starting XI.

There are no fresh injury concerns for the Blues as they look to have a fully-fit squad available.

George Puscas could drop back to the bench with Meite potentially returning to the starting XI for the Royals.

Former Blues captain Michael Morrison, Andy Rinomhota and, Ovie Ejaria could all return to the squad following injuries.

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt