Birmingham City picked up their first win in the Sky Bet Championship since August on Wednesday night when substitute Isaac Vassell’s late strike toppled visitors Sheffield Wednesday, and fans will now look forward to Saturday’s clash at Hull City with great anticipation.
Caretaker boss Lee Carsley has now picked up four points from just two games in charge, already matching the total of former boss Harry Redknapp, and there is a real belief around St Andrew’s that their unbeaten start to life under the former midfielder can continue at the weekend.
A number of solid performances could be found across the pitch on Saturday, and Vassell’s goal from the bench will give the manager a particular selection headache ahead of the trip to the KCOM.
Another three points would see the Blues continue to rise up the table, and with that in mind, this is the starting XI Carsley should consider sending out this weekend…
David Stockdale will undoubtedly start in goal, with the former Brighton shot-stopper considered one of the best keepers in the division.
The same back-four that kept a clean sheet against Wednesday has to be deployed once more, with Maxime Colin and Emilio Nsue on the flanks, marshalled by Harlee Dean and Michael Morrison in the middle.
Consistency could be key for the Blues this year, and a midfield three of Ndoye, Davis and Gardner should be continued, with the trio looking impressive against a dangerous Sheffield Wednesday side.
One of the trip may be at risk however when Jason lowe returns from injury, and if the former Blackburn captain can prove his fitness before Saturday, he could come back into the starting line-up.
Changes could be made up-front, with £225,000 rated forward and match-winner Isaac Vassell coming in for Jacques Maghoma on the right, and Southampton loanee Sam Gallagher replacing Lukas Jutkiewicz upfront.
Young Chelsea loanee Jeremie Boga, who has looked class at this level so far, should continue on the left.
Three points at Hull on Saturday would be the perfect way for the Blues to head into the international break, and Lee Carsley could return from the brief spell away with a full-time contract under his belt.
Blues fans, what changes would you make to this starting XI? Would you give Jutkiewicz another start? Have your say below...