Birmingham City watched on this week as former midfielder, Jude Bellingham, made his England debut. 

England were comfortable winners against the Republic of Ireland on Thursday evening, with Borussia Dortmund's Bellingham stepping off the bench for his senior debut at Wembley.

He only made the move to Germany in the summer, leaving behind boyhood club, Birmingham.

Quiz: Did these 17 Birmingham City players ever actually score a league goal for the club?

The 17-year-old's debut for England was a proud moment for all associated with the Blues and Aitor Karanka was amongst those to issue a message the midfielder's way.

That provoked a response from Bellingham, who delivered a message on Karanka at Birmingham:

Birmingham have picked up 13 points from the opening 11 fixtures of the Championship season, leaving them 17th in the table under Karanka at this stage.

It's the international break this weekend, with Birmingham not in action for another six days. They face Coventry City in their next fixture.

The Verdict

Bellingham, wherever he ends up, will always follow Birmingham.

He's a Birmingham fan and will always have a close eye on what's going on at St Andrew's.

It's been a mixed start under Karanka, but history tells you that the Spaniard, with the right resources, can be a success in the Championship.

Bellingham will hope Karanka is the man to get the Blues moving up the table.

Thoughts? Let us know!