Birmingham City take on Reading on Friday evening as they return to St Andrew’s for competitive action for the first time since the start of November. Blues had their first game back last weekend as they were held to a 0-0 draw at Blackpool after a four-week break for the World Cup.
Before the competition got underway over in Qatar, Birmingham went on a decent run of form with four wins and three draws in nine games. This period did end with a 2-1 defeat to Sunderland but John Eustace’s side were rather hard done by with a heavily congested fixture schedule.
Friday’s opponents are exceeding expectations this season as they are currently just two points outside of the playoff spots, in 8th position. The Royals struggled at the end of October and start of November with three defeats and a draw, but they have since bounced back with two victories.
Last weekend they beat Coventry by one goal to nil and five weeks ago they managed a 2-1 win away at Hull City. Paul Ince’s side are by no means an easy opposition and Eustace will be very aware. With that in mind, here is the near-full-strength starting XI we predict the Blues boss to go with, in a 3-5-2 formation.
1. GK: John Ruddy
Yet another clean sheet last week and a deserved recipient of a contract extension recently. No real competition for the goalkeeper as it stands. | Getty Images
2. CB: Auston Trusty
Been completely everpresent for Blues this campaign as the American has started every single Championship game. An easy player to predict will make the XI. | Getty Images
3. CB: Marc Roberts
Came in for Harlee Dean and did well at the centre of defence. Dean is still recovering from a calf problem, and Roberts is the best replacement at the moment. | Getty Images
4. CB: Dion Sanderson
Has formed a good partnership with Trusty and is able to adapt to whoever comes into the third centre back spot. Been crucial for Birmingham on loan from Wolves. | Getty Images