Birmingham City manager Chris Davies faces a mounting selection headache ahead of the crucial Boxing Day fixture against Derby County at St Andrew's, with winger Keshi Anderson the latest name added to the injury list.
Fresh Blow for Blues as Anderson Picks Up Knock
Keshi Anderson is a significant doubt for the upcoming Championship match after sustaining an injury in the previous outing. The 30-year-old was forced off after just half an hour during the 3-0 defeat to Sheffield United at Bramall Lane, a game in which his mistake contributed directly to the second Blades goal.
Davies confirmed the setback, stating the player had "picked up a little bit of a knock" and that his fitness would need to be assessed in the coming days. This news further depletes Davies's options as he prepares his squad for the busy festive schedule.
Cochrane and Beadle Race Against Time
Anderson is not the only concern for the Blues boss. Defender Alex Cochrane and goalkeeper James Beadle are also facing battles to be fit for the visit of John Eustace's Rams.
Providing an update, Davies noted that Cochrane's recovery is "moving in the right direction" but perhaps not as swiftly as hoped. In more positive news, he indicated that Beadle is "very, very close" to a return, marking the goalkeeper and Cochrane as the two primary fitness worries before Anderson's issue emerged.
Suspension and Absences Compound Selection Issues
The injury concerns are compounded by the absence of midfielder Tommy Doyle, who will begin a three-match suspension. The Wolverhampton Wanderers loanee was sent off for a reckless challenge in the loss at Sheffield United.
Davies must also plan without defender Bright Osayi-Samuel, who is on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations. This presents a tactical puzzle, as Tomoki Iwata – who has been deputising at right-back – could be moved into Doyle's vacant midfield role, leaving a gap in defence.
"There's lots of options," Davies said, considering his limited resources. "You've got that one where Tomo can go back into midfield, but he's done well at right back. We're not blessed with defenders at the moment."
The manager also hinted that squad rotation is inevitable during the demanding Christmas period, promising minutes for players who have seen less action. He name-checked Marc Leonard as a "good option" in midfield after impressive performances when called upon.
With several key players sidelined, Davies's tactical choices for the Derby County encounter will be scrutinised as Birmingham City seek to return to winning ways on home soil.
