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.
9. RWB: Maxime Colin
With Roberts stepping into a back three, it makes sense for Colin to stay in his secondary position as a right wing-back. | Getty Images
10. ST: Scott Hogan
Blues struggled without their top scorer against Blackpool. Even with him being ‘touch and go’ to play, we think he’s that crucial he has to play - especially against a team as in form as Reading. | Getty Images
11. TS: Lukas Jutkiewicz
Was in good form before the World Cup break and could be a good option alongside Hogan. Always works hard and is dominant in the air. Perhaps useful to nod the ball down and hold things up. | Getty Images