Birmingham City manager Chris Davies has delivered a double dose of positive injury news ahead of this weekend's crucial Championship encounter, with key players Tomoki Iwata and Demarai Gray both making significant progress in their recoveries.
Tomoki Iwata Declared Fit for Leicester City Clash
Chris Davies has confirmed that influential defender Tomoki Iwata has successfully come through training this week and is expected to feature against Leicester City at St Andrew's @ Knighthead Park on Saturday afternoon. The makeshift right-back was forced off during the second half of last weekend's 2-0 victory over Oxford United after sustaining a painful hip injury.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, the Blues manager provided reassuring updates about the Japanese international's condition. "He's been OK, he's got through training fine so he should be OK," Davies stated, indicating that Iwata has recovered sufficiently from the knock that required his substitution and replacement by Bright Osayi-Samuel during the Oxford United match.
Demarai Gray Targets FA Cup Return Against Leeds
In further encouraging news for Birmingham City supporters, winger Demarai Gray is reportedly hopeful of making his long-awaited return to the squad for next weekend's FA Cup tie against Leeds United. The talented left-sided attacker has been sidelined for the club's last eight matches across all competitions after picking up a calf injury during the Boxing Day encounter against Derby County.
Davies expressed significant enthusiasm about Gray's impending comeback, highlighting the player's importance to the squad. "It would be a huge boost and he's another one who we can safely say has been a successful addition to the squad," the manager explained. "He's had big moments, he's a big player for us. He's got a lot of experience now and is one of the more senior type players, having him back for the last third of the season will be massive."
The potential return of Gray represents a substantial boost for Birmingham City's attacking options as they approach the decisive final phase of the Championship season. His experience and creative qualities have been notably absent during his injury layoff, and his availability could prove crucial in both league and cup competitions.
