Birmingham City's hard-fought 1-1 draw with Derby County on Boxing Day was marred by a significant double setback for manager Chris Davies.
Demarai Gray Injury Fear Casts Shadow
The match at St Andrew's saw influential winger Demarai Gray limp out of the action after just 16 minutes, replaced by Lewis Koumas. Speaking after the final whistle, Davies expressed serious concern over the issue, indicating the player is likely to face a spell on the sidelines.
"Demarai was feeling something early in the game," Davies explained. "We were trying to see if he could run it off. I wouldn't be able to give you days or weeks on that one, but if you have to come off in a game you can anticipate a few weeks. I think it's a knock on his calf."
This development places Gray as a major doubt for the crucial upcoming Championship fixtures against Southampton, Watford, and Coventry City before the league pauses for the FA Cup.
Klarer Sees Red in Stoppage Time
Compounding Davies' problems, club captain Christoph Klarer was shown a straight red card deep into stoppage time for a high challenge on Derby's Ebou Adams. The dismissal means the defensive leader will now serve a suspension, ruling him out of the same trio of matches.
Davies reacted to the sending off, stating: "I think it was an uncharacteristic mistake from him. Someone who is a colossal leader for us will be a miss, no doubt. That's him obviously suspended. Christoph has been fantastic, he doesn't make many mistakes, but that was obviously one of them."
Defensive Headaches Mount for Blues Boss
Patching up his defence is becoming an increasing challenge for the Birmingham manager. The absence of Klarer comes at a time when the squad is already stretched. There is a glimmer of hope, however, with the potential return of left-back Alex Cochrane within the next 10 days.
"Alex has made that position his own in our system as that hybrid left-back, he's played it so well," Davies added. "We're hoping Alex is going to be available for one of these games. Southampton could come too soon. That's very possible. We're talking about days between games. We want him back as quickly as possible, he's such an integral part of our system."
The result leaves Birmingham City facing a demanding schedule with a significantly depleted squad, as they aim to maintain their momentum in a tightly contested Championship season.
