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.
5. LWB: Emmanuel Longelo
Played the full 90 minutes against Blackpool and has become Eustace’s favoured option on the left. We think he will keep his place. | Getty Images
6. CM: Krystian Bielik
The Polish international’s performances have been key to Blues maintaining one of the best defensive records in the Championship. Stays at the base of a three-man midfield. | Getty Images
7. CM: Juninho Bacuna
Normally a bit of a toss-up between Bacuna and Hannibal Mejbri. We’re giving Bacuna the nod this time around, but it could be either or. | Getty Images
8. CM: Tahith Chong
Operated a little further forward as a second striker at Blackpool but heads back into midfield to enable the return of a key player. | Getty Images