Garry Monk believes he has the 'best of both worlds' when it comes to midfield options as he looks to find a replacement for Gary Gardner this weekend.

Gardner is suspended for the clash with Hull City, but Monk isn't worried as he feels he has two viable options to replace the on loan Aston Villa star, both offering something different.

He believes the Craig Gardner, Gary's brother, could line up alongside Maikel Kieftenbeld, or he could go with youngster Charlie Lakin, a younger and perhaps more energetic option.

“We have got Craig and Charlie, the best of both worlds, you have experience on one hand and you have young enthusiasm on the other - but both have shown they can contribute,” Monk told Birmingham Live.

“As always with this group of players, it’s tough decisions, you have to make difficult decisions each and every week but the main aim is what I feel is best for the team."

The Blues are currently tenth in the table, just three points shy of the final play off spot. They've proven tough to beat this season, losing fewer games the Norwich in second place and Sheffield United in third.

Their opponents Hull City are second from bottom having conceded 21 goals in 16 games and sit eight points behind Monk's side.

The Verdict

Monk is showing what a class manager he is, working with the players left behind last season to mould an effective and organised unit.

They're having to approach games in a certain way, tight and compact with an emphasis on organisation, but it is paying dividends. Whoever replaces Gardner tomorrow will be more than adequate against struggling Hull.

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