Birmingham City injury crisis unfolds as John Eustace faces tricky situation for Blackpool clash

Birmingham City have somewhat of an injury crisis in attack ahead of Saturday’s clash with Blackpool, as two more players have been listed as doubts by head coach John Eustace. Lukas Jutkiewicz was replaced by Scott Hogan at the end of the win at Millwall, but both are now struggling ahead of the weekend.

Tuesday’s match-winner, Jutkiewicz, was taken off with a minor issue at The Den, whereas Hogan’s troubles with his groin are continuing. But there’s light at the end of the tunnel for Blues as Troy Deeney, who has been out for a couple of months with a hamstring problem, could make a return at St Andrew’s.

“There were lots of knocks for the boys [on Tuesday],” Eustace told the media at the Wasps Elite Performance and Innovation Centre. John [Ruddy] will be struggling for the weekend, he’s got a thigh strain - it’s not like him to come off. It gives a good opportunity and Neil [Etheridge] will be starting on Saturday.

“When he’s been called upon he’s been exceptional - a very good professional who trains to the maximum - and he’ll be ready to go for the next couple of games. Dion [Sanderson] played for the U21s on Monday, got 60 minutes, and did very well. Troy [Deeney] has been back in the group this week training very hard. Hopefully we can get them both back in the squad,” Eustace continued.

As well as news on Jutkiewicz, Hogan, Deeney, Sanderson and Ruddy, the head coach issued an update on 18-year-old sensation George Hall. The midfielder, who scored recently in the 2-1 defeat at Sunderland, will be out for a while longer with a hamstring strain. Other than that, Eustace was delighted to say he has a fully fit squad to select from.