Jay Stansfield's Missed Opportunity Sparks Debate on Birmingham City Future
In Birmingham City's recent defeat to Millwall, striker Jay Stansfield faced a critical moment that has ignited discussions about his role and future at the club. Midway through the first half, Stansfield intercepted a loose pass from Tristan Crama, presenting him with two clear options: pass to August Priske or take a shot himself. However, he hesitated, allowing Millwall's defense to regroup, and his subsequent effort from 16 yards was saved by goalkeeper Anthony Patterson. Minutes later, Millwall scored the first of three goals, sealing a convincing victory.
This incident highlighted Stansfield's recent struggles, as he has only scored once since November. Yet, labeling him as unfit for a starting role under manager Chris Davies would be an oversimplification. Statistically, Stansfield remains Birmingham City's top performer this season, leading the team with nine Championship goals, five assists, and 10 big chances created. No other Blues player matches these numbers, underscoring his importance despite occasional lapses.
Statistical Dominance and Positional Questions
Stansfield's versatility has been both an asset and a point of contention. Often deployed as a number ten, he is described by Davies as a 'running 10' rather than a traditional creative playmaker. While he may not excel at intricate passes through tight defenses, his busy style has yielded assists through various means, such as cushioned knockdowns from corners and shots turned in by teammates. Comparing him to Marvin Ducksch, who has recently taken over the number ten role, Stansfield's productivity is superior. Ducksch has only one league assist and has created just one big chance, which resulted in Stansfield's goal against Leicester.
Since the turn of the year, Ducksch has been more effective with six goals and an assist, but Stansfield's overall season contributions make him the team's best attacker. Neither player is the perfect solution, reflecting broader issues from two transfer windows where 18 signings were made. This summer, Birmingham City will need to address this, regardless of their league status, especially with Kanya Fujimoto, last year's number ten signing, being overlooked by Davies.
Expert Opinions on Stansfield's Best Position
The debate over Stansfield's optimal role was a focal point on the post-Millwall episode of the Keep Right On Podcast. Blues fan and Solar Eyes singer Glenn Smyth noted that while Stansfield's stats are impressive, his link-up and hold-up play have not progressed as hoped. Smyth suggested that Stansfield's best position might be on the left wing, citing his performance for Fulham against Birmingham in a cup match, though he acknowledged this is unlikely given the team's current winger depth.
Reporter Alex Dicken agreed that Stansfield has shown more freedom on the left, but emphasized that he has been more effective as a number ten this season due to increased playing time there. Dicken speculated that if Birmingham City reaches the Premier League, Stansfield could transition back to a nine, as the demands differ from the Championship, where physical strikers like August Priske are more common.
Brian Dick added that playing Stansfield as a nine would require adjusting goal expectations, focusing on his strengths as a channel runner who wins high turnovers. He proposed a system with two tens, positioning Stansfield as a left ten—a hybrid between left wing and central playmaker. However, with four good wingers currently at the club, building a team around Stansfield is not feasible, though he should still start most games.
As summer transfer targets become clearer, Stansfield's output is not the primary issue; instead, the pressing question is how to best utilize him in Davies' system. With 34 league games played, his ideal role remains uncertain, fueling ongoing speculation and analysis among fans and pundits alike.
