Birmingham City play host to Sunderland on Friday evening as they take on a fourth Sky Bet Championship challenge in the space of 10 days. Blues will be keen to continue their unbeaten run in a final outing before the World Cup break.
Last time out, John Eustace’s side claimed a late draw against Swansea City, as boyhood Bluenose Troy Deeney netted in the 89th minute to salvage a point. Scott Hogan was on the scoresheet yet again, making it nine goals for the campaign.
Friday’s opposition Sunderland have struggled in recent weeks, dropping off somewhat after a strong start to the season. Tony Mowbray’s men tasted defeat last weekend as Mark Harris grabbed the winner in a 1-0 loss to Cardiff City on home soil.
The Black Cats have won just two of their last 10 league games and have lost four in this period. They were victorious the last time they went out on the road, however, as they beat Huddersfield Town at the start of this month. Sunderland are currently four points below Blues, down in 17th place.
Eustace and his team, who can move closer to the play-off spots with a win, will likely be licking their lips at Sunderland’s recent form. There may have to be an element of rotation, however, given how intense the fixture congestion has been of late. With that being said, here’s how we think Blues will line up - in a 3-5-2 shape.
9. RWB - Maxime Colin
Can run for England - or shall we say France - so we think he will be fine to start yet another game. Will benefit from moving further up the field once again. | Getty Images
10. ST - Scott Hogan
Has now scored nine goals this campaign after netting in successive matches and is Birmingham’s top scorer. No reason to drop the Irishman. | Getty Images
11. ST - Lukas Jutkiewicz
Difficult to displace Troy Deeney but it’s worth giving the former Watford man a rest after he played a full 90 on Tuesday. Jutkiewicz was a key figure in Blues’ 2-1 win over Stoke City, winning a remarkable 16 aerial duels. | Getty Images