Birmingham City will look to build on a rare away victory when they travel to face Swansea City in the Championship this week. Manager Chris Davies is predicted to make two key changes to the side that won in the FA Cup last weekend.
Blues Aim to Cure Travel Sickness
Birmingham ended a troubling mid-season slump with a stunning 3-2 win over Coventry City earlier this month. That result at St Andrew's showcased the team's high ceiling under Davies. However, their form on the road has been a persistent issue throughout the campaign.
The weekend's 3-2 FA Cup victory against League Two Cambridge United was a welcome, but isolated, positive result away from home. For Birmingham to sustain a genuine promotion push, improving their record in hostile environments is now essential.
Predicted Birmingham City Starting Eleven
Davies is likely to revert to a stronger line-up after making changes for the cup tie. Here is how Birmingham could line up against Swansea.
Goalkeeper and Defence
In goal, James Beadle should continue. The Brighton & Hove Albion loanee has been the first-choice goalkeeper for most of the season.
Tomoki Iwata is expected to feature at right-back, offering his typical versatility. In central defence, Phil Neumann is predicted to return after being rested against Cambridge. He should partner Christoph Klarer, who is now available again after serving a three-match suspension following his red card on Boxing Day.
At left-back, January signing Kai Wagner is likely to keep his place. The former Philadelphia Union player has been on the winning side in both of his appearances for the club so far.
Midfield and Attack
The midfield is set to be anchored by Wolves loanee Tommy Doyle, who will be tasked with controlling the game's tempo. Alongside him, Paik Seung-Ho should start. The 28-year-old South Korean has scored four goals this season.
On the wings, Patrick Roberts is anticipated to start on the right after providing two assists in the win over Coventry. On the left, youngster Lewis Koumas is beginning to find his rhythm and scored in that same victory.
In an advanced role, Marvin Ducksch could operate just behind the striker. The two-time Germany international is in fine form, having netted three times in his last two matches.
Leading the line will likely be Kyogo Furuhashi. The former Celtic striker scored in the FA Cup but is still searching for his first Championship goal of the season, amid ongoing speculation about a return to Parkhead.
A Crucial Test for Promotion Hopes
This match represents a significant test of Birmingham City's credentials. While their home form has shown promise, addressing their away-day struggles is critical for any promotion ambitions. The predicted changes aim to bring experience and stability back to the side as they face a challenging trip to Wales. A positive result against Swansea could provide the platform for a more consistent run of form on the road in the final months of the season.
