Birmingham City have been handed a tough start to their Championship campaign which will see them face three promotion contenders in the first six games.

However, they begin with a home game against Norwich and whilst it will obviously be tough, it's a fixture they will look to get maximum points from.

Following that, they go to the Riverside to take on Tony Pulis' Middlesbrough before welcoming relegated Swansea to St. Andrew's in what will be two tough encounters.

A trip to Bolton presents them with a chance to get some points on the board before they travel to the East Midlands to take on a Nottingham Forest side that have splashed the cash this summer as they seek a Premier League return.

Their final game before the first international break is at home to QPR and that could be a much-needed game as Monk's men look to get a win.

The Verdict

After battling against relegation last season, Blues will want to be competing higher up the table and these first six games will be a real test and show how good they are.

There are some winnable fixtures, but the three games against Boro, Swansea and Forest are very tough and could mean they get off to a bad start.

However, the attraction of the Championship is how anyone can beat anyone and Monk will hope his side can be competitive against anyone.

If they can head into the first international break with seven or eight points it would be a positive start for Blues.

Thoughts, Birmingham fans? Let us know in the comments below!