Birmingham City must sort out their squad this summer, including resolving the futures of three senior players returning from loan spells: Taylor Gardner-Hickman, Marc Leonard, and Scott Wright. All three spent last season away from St Andrew's @ Knighthead Park with varying levels of success.
Scott Wright's Uncertain Future
Wright, 28, moved to Dundee in January to revive his career after a second ACL injury. He played 10 games for Dundee, starting twice and scoring once. Now entering the final year of his contract, Wright is not expected to feature in Blues' first-team plans next season. With wingers Carlos Vicente and Patrick Roberts ahead of him, Birmingham is likely to listen to offers for the winger.
Marc Leonard's Injury Blow
Leonard suffered a ruptured Achilles while on loan at Hearts in May, ruling him out for six to nine months. He won't leave Blues this summer as a result. Before the injury, Leonard had an impressive loan spell, playing a key role in Hearts' surprising title challenge, which ended with Celtic pipping them on the final day. Interest from Hearts, MLS, and Belgian clubs was strong, and he was even in contention for Scotland's World Cup squad. Blues had hoped to make a significant profit on the under-£500,000 fee paid to Brighton two years ago.
Taylor Gardner-Hickman's Situation
Gardner-Hickman, 24, joined Blackburn Rovers last season seeking regular football. The presence of former West Brom boss Valerien Ismael at Blackburn was a factor, but Ismael's departure in February complicated a potential permanent move. Blues included a buy option in the loan deal and were willing to let him go, indicating manager Davies' stance. Discussions are ongoing, so Gardner-Hickman will report for pre-season at the end of the month unless a transfer is finalized.
Wright is also expected to report for pre-season, while Leonard will begin his recovery at the Elite Performance and Innovation Centre (EPIC).
