Birmingham City have shared an image of midfielder Maikel Kieftenbeld out of his crutches as he continues his recovery from a serious knee injury.

The 29-year-old suffered the injury during the Blues' 1-0 victory over Leeds United in early April, when he was on the receiving end of a crunching tackle from opposite number Kalvin Phillips.

Kieftenbeld was initially ruled out for six to nine months with an anterior cruciate ligament injury, but he has now stepped up his recovery and is back on the grass at Wast Hills.

Birmingham exercised the option to trigger a one-year extension on his deal in light of the injury, which means he still has two years left to run on his St Andrew's deal.

The Dutchman made a total of 38 appearances at the base of the Blues' midfield prior to his injury last season, as he helped his side secure a 17th-placed finish in the Championship.

The Verdict

This is some much overdue positive news for Birmingham fans amid a turbulent off-season at St Andrew's.

Kieftenbeld was a key figure for the Blues last season and he has firmly established himself as a fans' favourite at the club, but he should not be rushed back from his injury.

There may be a sense of urgency to get Kieftenbeld back playing to appease Birmingham fans after the exits of Garry Monk, Che Adams, Michael Morrison and Jota this summer.

It may come as a satisfying sight to see Kieftenbeld back on the training ground, but I think it will be some time before we see him back in first-team action.