A run of five defeats in a row, combined with a nine-point deduction has left Birmingham City in a relegation battle.

Garry Monk’s men will be nervously looking over their shoulder and they will be well aware they need a few more points on the board before they’re safe.

And, one man will be crucial as they look to get back to winning ways – striker Che Adams.

The former Sheffield United man has enjoyed a superb campaign, weighing in with 21 goals for Blues which has seen him nominated alongside Teemu Pukki and Billy Sharp for Championship Player of the Year.

As our graphic shows, Adams fully merits that recognition as he really has been brilliant for the West Midlands outfit.

Obviously, the standout aspect is his goal return and it has to be noted that unlike his rivals for the award, Adams is playing for a side that don’t create chances for fun and aren’t competing at the top.

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He has been ruthless and clinical when getting opportunities and bullies defenders with his great physical presence.

However, the 22-year-old has always been quick and strong, so it’s developing other parts of his game that have made him a striker to be feared.

As you can see, he is now a good link-up man for the team with a good pass success rate demonstrating how he is comfortable on the ball and his key passes prove he can make the right decision now.

The potential was always there with the former Sheffield United man and he has now matured into a top Championship striker.

A summer move to the top-flight seems inevitable and Adams has every chance of leaving St. Andrew’s after being crowned the best player outside the Premier League.