Birmingham City will begin pre-season training at their Henley-in-Arden base next week, with six players facing pivotal summers to prove their worth under manager Chris Davies. The squad, barring World Cup participant Paik Seung-ho, is expected to report for duty six weeks before the Championship opener at Sheffield United.
Ryan Allsop: Veteran eyeing number one spot
At 34, Ryan Allsop is viewed as back-up goalkeeper, but with only rookie Brad Mayo as competition, he sees an opportunity. Davies insists on having two 'number ones', giving Allsop hope until a new goalkeeper arrives. Allsop has two years left on his contract and could stake a claim for the starting role.
Ethan Laird: Right-back battle intensifies
Ethan Laird started just three league games at right-back last season. Despite fan support, he hasn't convinced Davies, often playing left-back instead. The competition with Osayi-Samuel for the right-back position will be key. Laird must show versatility and consistency to win the manager's trust.
Lee Buchanan: Comeback after two-year absence
Lee Buchanan has played only four first-team games in two years. The left-back, known for defending over attacking, faces an uphill battle against current starter Kai Wagner and Alex Cochrane. Buchanan won't be rushed, but he needs a strong pre-season to re-establish himself.
Jack Robinson: Redemption needed
Jack Robinson, third-choice centre-back at 33, has one year left on his contract. After a season marred by red cards, he must prove he can contribute positively. A standout pre-season could salvage his Blues legacy and secure his future at the club.
Patrick Roberts: Role uncertainty
Patrick Roberts contributed five goals and five assists last season but was often unused away from home. He started just once in the final eight games, falling behind Carlos Vicente. With doubts over his long-term role, pre-season is crucial for Roberts to show he can fit Davies' system.
Kyogo Furuhashi: Fit and focused
Kyogo Furuhashi returns after shoulder surgery, which Blues arranged either to have him fit for pre-season or for a potential sale. The former Celtic star has had limited chances under Davies and likely faces a bit-part role unless he delivers a spectacular pre-season.
Notable exclusions
Marvin Ducksch and Kanya Fujimoto are not on this list. Ducksch is expected to move on, while Fujimoto, given only 45 minutes in the league last season, is not in Davies' plans. Both are unlikely to change their situations through pre-season.
