Birmingham City Predicted XI: Ducksch Returns for Norwich Clash
Birmingham City are set to take on Norwich City at Carrow Road this Saturday in a highly anticipated Championship encounter. Both teams are in excellent form, making this match a crucial fixture in the race for the play-offs.
Form Teams Collide
Blues enter the game on a seven-match unbeaten streak in the league, positioning them just two points behind sixth-placed Derby County. The Championship table is incredibly tight, with 11 teams separated by only six points. Norwich City, sitting just below the 16th-place cut-off, have been equally impressive, winning seven of their last eight matches across all competitions. Their only defeat during this run came against Middlesbrough.
Rotation and Selection Dilemmas
Manager Chris Davies made several changes for last weekend's FA Cup tie against Leeds United, with players like Ryan Allsop and new signing Jonathan Panzo performing well. However, key decisions loom for the Norwich clash.
In goal, James Beadle is expected to reclaim his spot after keeping three clean sheets in his last five league games, despite Allsop's solid cup display. The defence presents a tougher choice. Phil Neumann has been consistent, but Panzo's left-footed balance could be advantageous. Christoph Klarer is likely to partner one of them on the right side of central defence.
Kai Wagner is set to start at left-back, with Bright Osayi-Samuel favoured at right-back unless Tomoki Iwata recovers fully from minor injuries.
Midfield and Attack Decisions
In midfield, Jhon Solis and Tommy Doyle are almost certain to start after their excellent performances against Leeds. On the wings, Carlos Vicente and Patrick Roberts have been rotated recently, with Vicente's speed potentially useful away from home.
The left flank poses another challenge. Demarai Gray is fit again and might start, but Ibrahim Osman's electric form, despite some erratic finishing, could see him used as an impact substitute against tired legs.
Up front, Jay Stansfield will lead the line, likely partnered by Marvin Ducksch. Ducksch has been in fine form, with five goals and two assists in his last nine appearances, giving him the edge over August Priske.
Predicted Lineup
Birmingham City predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Beadle; Osayi-Samuel, Neumann, Klarer, Wagner; Solis, Doyle; Vicente, Ducksch, Gray; Stansfield.
This lineup reflects Davies' tactical considerations and the team's current form, as Blues aim to secure a vital victory against a resurgent Norwich side.
