Birmingham City have enjoyed a pretty decent start to life under Pep Clotet, with the side currently in the top half.

Whilst performances haven't always been convincing, Blues put in their most complete display of the campaign against Middlesbrough last time out, although they somehow only won due to a late Odin Bailey goal.

Nevertheless, it has given the team a platform to build on moving forward and the Spanish boss will want more of the same from his team.

You can't imagine that he will be backed with massive funds to improve the squad in the New Year but Blues are sure to be active as they look to remain in touch with the top six if possible.

With that in mind, we look at THREE players who need to impress in the coming months to ensure they remain part of Clotet's plans moving forward...

Jake Clarke-Salter

There was a bit of excitement around St. Andrew's when the club brought in the former England U21 international on loan from Chelsea but it hasn't worked out so far.

Clarke-Salter has played just one game and is behind Harlee Dean and Marc Roberts in the pecking order. He will have wanted to play during his temporary spell so you wouldn't be surprised if it was cut short in the New Year unless he forces his way into the XI quickly.

Cheick Keita

The direct left-sided player attracted praise from Clotet recently but that doesn't change the fact he is still to play a game this season.

It should be pointed out that he has had injury problems but he still faces a battle to get into the team.

Some fans believe there is a lot of potential in the 23-year-old but unless things change quite dramatically an exit seems inevitable.

Kerim Mrabti

Another who has had bad luck with injuries, Mrabti has featured in just four Blues games this season and hasn't really impressed in that time.

Bringing in quality in the wide areas and attacking midfield has to be a priority for the recruitment team in January, so Mrabti needs to perform before he falls further away from the XI.

 

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