Birmingham City’s new-look starting XI vs Reading includes four new signings

Birmingham City are currently undergoing one of the most important summer revamps in the club’s recent history.

New manager Chris Davies will be keen to add depth and quality to his squad ahead of the new season, all while trying to retain the best of the current crop. 

The opening game of the 2024/25, at home against Reading, is merely four weeks away and Blues are in a strong position. John Ruddy, who turned down a contract extension, is the only key player who has gotten away as it stands and Birmingham have already replaced him.

Neil Etheridge’s exit was also confirmed, Blues reacting by signing not just one goalkeeper but two. It’s a toss-up as to which shot-stopper will start, owing to just how Birmingham have recruited.

Last season’s League One top scorer Alfie May has also signed, and as has former Sweden Under-21 international Emil Hansson. There’s still plenty more work to be done in the transfer window, but the horizons are promising. 

Speculation is rife and plenty of reports have accuracy to them, so how could Birmingham line up in 2024/25 if the rumours do indeed prove true? 

Only including the most credible links and taking into account current injuries, here’s the starting XI that Davies could name against Reading on the opening day.