Birmingham City will look to continue their impressive Championship form and potentially break into the play-off places when they face local rivals West Bromwich Albion in a highly-anticipated derby at The Hawthorns.
Form Guide and Stakes
Coming into this fixture, Birmingham City are in ninth position, just one point outside the play-off spots. Their recent run of four wins from their last six matches has cemented their status as genuine promotion contenders. This positive momentum was highlighted by a brutal welcome for new Norwich City boss Philippe Clement in their last outing.
In stark contrast, West Brom, managed by Ryan Mason, are struggling in 17th place. The Baggies have managed just one victory in their last six matches and are among the division's lowest scorers, despite a spirited 3-2 loss to league leaders Coventry City last time out.
The Tactical Battle
This fixture presents an intriguing sideline battle, pitting two former colleagues against each other. Both Birmingham's Chris Davies and West Brom's Ryan Mason previously served as coaches under Ange Postecoglou at Tottenham Hotspur, adding a fascinating layer of tactical familiarity to the local rivalry.
Birmingham City Predicted Line-Up
Goalkeeper and Defence
In goal, James Beadle is expected to continue. The Brighton loanee has started the last eight matches and appears to have firmly established himself as the first-choice goalkeeper.
The back four is predicted to feature Tomoki Iwata at right-back. The Japan international is becoming increasingly accomplished in the role and is currently keeping the now-fit Bright Osayi-Samuel out of the team. The central defensive partnership should see Phil Neumann, who has started the last six games, alongside club captain Christoph Klarer. Klarer has adapted superbly to the Championship and was recently rewarded with a new long-term deal. Alex Cochrane is the near-certain starter at left-back, having been a consistent source of solidity and creativity.
Midfield and Attack
The midfield is set to be anchored by Tommy Doyle. The Wolverhampton Wanderers loanee is growing in confidence weekly and fits the manager's system perfectly, though rumours persist of a potential January recall. Alongside him, Marc Leonard is in a strong position to start due to Paik Seung-ho's recent shoulder injury.
Further forward, all eyes will be on Jay Stansfield in the central attacking midfield role. After scoring a brace against Norwich, he will be eager to add to his season tally of eight goals. On the wings, Patrick Roberts has started the last five matches and is showing signs of his best form, while Demari Gray will look to build on an excellent display against Norwich where he created two goals.
Leading the line will be Marvin Ducksch. The big summer signing finally opened his account with a double in the last game and will expect to retain his place after such an impressive performance.
This derby clash promises to be a compelling encounter as Birmingham seek to climb the table and West Brom aim to kickstart their faltering campaign.
