New signing offers 28-word verdict after Birmingham City complete Bristol City transfer

The 22-year-old has signed on a season-long loan deal from the Robins. Blues have the option to sign Gardner-Hickman at the end of his loan. He represents the 12th signing of the summer transfer window.

He has potentially joined in time to make his debut against Leyton Orient at the weekend, with the cut-off for registrations at mid-day. The move is subject to league and FA clearance, but Gardner-Hickman is fit and ready after taking part an open training at his parent club earlier in the week.

Birmingham City’s newest recruit spoke briefly about his motivation behind his move to the club, but gave an exciting prediction. He praised the club’s ambition and the project offered to him, whilst adding that the club is going in only one direction, and that’s up.

"I am delighted,” said Blues’ newest recruit to the official club website.

“The Club is only going in one direction and that's up.

"I am really excited to be part of this project and the Club's ambition.”

He was described by Birmingham at his unveiling as a ‘midfielder’ and so that is where Chris Davies might choose to play him. Gardner-Hickman is predominantly a central midfielder, but is also capable of playing as a right wing-back.

His move to St Andrew's sees him return to the Midlands after just 12 months away. Gardner-Hickman was initially signed by Bristol City on a loan deal from West Brom, but his move was made permanent as he joined for a reported £1.3m.

Gardner-Hickman was born in Shropshire, but was a part of West Brom's academy structure, and graduated in to their first-team in 2021. He made 60 appearances for the Baggies, before his departure last summer.