Two new signings make debuts as Chris Davies gives nod to 'game-changer' - Birmingham City predicted XI v Walsall

Chris Davies’ side are in action at St Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park once again as they take on West Midlands neighbours Walsall in the first fixture of the group stage.

It’s a perfect opportunity for Birmingham to hand minutes to new signings and a host of fringe players as Davies continues to familiarise himself with his new squad. Jay Stansfield could make his highly-anticipated second debut, while fellow summer signings Ben Davies and Tomoki Iwata are in contention.

International stars Bailey Peacock-Farrell, Alfons Sampsted, Willum Willumsson, Luke Harris and Lyndon Dykes are all unavailable this midweek, giving even more reason for Davies to rotate. It’s a cup competition so it’ll still be respected, but it’s definitely nowhere near as important as the broader League One picture.

Birmingham City predicted lineup vs Walsall

Here’s how Birmingham World reporter Charlie Haffenden predicts Blues will shape up against Walsall on Tuesday.

GK: Ryan Allsop

The boyhood Bluenose has been utilised in the cup competitions so far this term. He’ll be keen to take over from Peacock-Farrell altogether soon.

RB: Taylor Gardner-Hickman

Gardner-Hickman, capable of playing in an array of positions, could slot in at right-back as Ethan Laird is carrying a knock and will ideally have a rest.

CB: Christoph Klarer

The standout performer from the weekend, Klarer will be keen to continue his momentum in the heart of defence.

CB: Ben Davies

The manager’s namesake is yet to feature since joining from Rangers toward the end of the transfer window. This is a great chance to bed in with some minutes.

LB: Brandon Khela

Khela was utilised at left-back in the Carabao Cup and did brilliantly as he netted a cracker away at Charlton Athletic. Davies could give him another opportunity to impress.

CM: Marc Leonard

Leonard brings so much confidence and composure to Blues’ midfield, something that really lacked last season. His presence will allow those around him to relax.

CM: Tomoki Iwata

Deadline day signing Iwata should make his debut based on Davies’ pre-match comments. The Japanese will be eager to create intense competition for the midfield spots.

CAM: Jay Stansfield

Stansfield loved playing just off the striker during his loan spell last campaign. It makes sense for him to get a start straight away as he left Fulham fully fit.

RW: Scott Wright

The game-changer against Wigan Athletic at the weekend, Wright should play from the off. It helps, too, that several fellow attackers are on international duty.

LW: Ayumu Yokoyama

Yokoyama has had promising cameos so far. The few thousand likely to be in attendance have a lot of dribbling to look forward to from the 21-year-old.

ST: Lukas Jutkiewicz

Jutkiewicz won’t get many openings for starts this season, so this one surely has to be welcomed with open arms. The Juke is a club legend.