A run of four successive defeats has realistically ended any hopes Birmingham City had of breaking into the top six this season.

Instead, with a potential 12 points deduction hanging over them, Blues will be aware they need the points on the board as they might become involved in a relegation battle.

That would be a real shame for Garry Monk and the players as they've had a tremendous season when you consider the circumstances they've played under.

However, there will be concern that they've lost form at the wrong time and if they are hit with a deduction it's going to be a very nervy end to the campaign.

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And, here we look at TWO key decision that Monk will have to make as he looks to get the side back to winning ways...

How to get the best out of Jota

The big-money recruit from Brentford hasn't delivered since arriving at St. Andrew's and he's not even made the XI in recent weeks which is a real worry.

Overall, Blues are a pretty limited side but they all work for each other and they have quality in Che Adams up top.

But, the Spaniard is supposed to be that spark in terms of creativity and it's just not happening. Monk may be considering adapting the formation and trying something else because they need more from Jota.

Playing Isaac Vassell more often

Adams and Lukas Jutkiewicz have been superb this season on the whole for Blues, no one would argue with that.

However, the team haven't scored for four games and there is an extremely talented player in Vassell on the bench.

He has real pace, good movement and Monk needs to give him a chance now he is available after those awful injuries he suffered.

We're not suggesting dropping Adams but Jutkiewicz could miss out or a 4-3-3 may work. Either way, it's a decision for the boss as they look to get back among the goals.