‘Incredible’ winger starts as Christoph Klarer injury assessed - Birmingham City predicted XI vs Charlton

Blues are in League One action again this weekend as they play host to Charlton Athletic at St Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park.

Revenge will be the aim on Saturday afternoon as Charlton are one of just two teams to beat Birmingham in League One this season, alongside Shrewsbury Town. Unbeaten in their last 14 league outings, Blues will be eager to extend their lead on Wycombe Wanderers and Wrexham at the summit of the standings.

Charlton won’t be easy to beat, however, as the Addicks have won five of their last six matches, drawing the other. Nathan Jones’ side will also be confident they can secure a positive result of their own having done so by a 1-0 scoreline in the reverse fixture back in October.

Davies started arguably his strongest possible lineup against bottom-of-the-league Cambridge last time out so he’ll probably do the same against a much better side in Charlton. The Vertu Trophy semi-final awaits on Tuesday so there could theoretically be some rotation, but League One remains the priority competition – even with Blues seven points clear at the top.

With that in mind, here are the 11 players we reckon will start against the Addicks.

Birmingham City predicted lineup vs Charlton

GK - Ryan Allsop

The boyhood Bluenose has been the first choice goalkeeper for several months. Bailey Peacock-Farrell, meanwhile, has made far too many mistakes between the sticks.

RB - Ethan Laird

In fine form, Laird has enjoyed regular starts and has built up some real momentum. The former Manchester United man will want to continue that for a while longer yet.

CB - Krystian Bielik

The skipper has had to sit on the bench a lot recently but could be in line for a start as Christoph Klarer hobbled off with a back injury midweek.

CB - Ben Davies

The manager’s namesake has been in sensational form this season, forming a formidable partnership with Klarer. He should cope just fine alongside Bielik too.

LB - Alex Cochrane

Cochrane has had to play a lot of football this season with Lee Buchanan out with two long-term injuries but he’s adjusted superbly, locking down the left-back spot.

CM - Tomoki Iwata

Arguably good enough to fit in any Championship midfield, Iwata has been one of Birmingham’s star men this term. His goal against Newcastle, by the way.

CM - Paik Seung-ho

Paik finally being back is such a boost for Blues, especially with Marc Leonard and Taylor Gardner-Hickman recently suffering injuries.

RAM - Kieran Dowell

The Rangers loanee has been a real hit, settling in excellently over recent weeks. Blues seem to have far more vigour to their attacks with Dowell in the team.

CAM - Willum Willumsson

Back from injury last time out, Willumsson is ready to shine having already notched five goals and eight assists in 25 matches this season.

LAM - Keshi Anderson

Anderson is in the form of his life, brimming with confidence no matter what position he plays in. Davies will be hoping the winger can stay fit for as long as possible.

ST - Jay Stansfield

Stansfield is enjoying a purple streak with four goals and one assist in his last four outings across all competitions. He’ll be eager to add to his tally further.