The sacking of Gary Rowett at Birmingham City was as much as a surprise and shock to everyone as it was to the man himself, and although the new owners may have the manager they wanted, Gianfranco Zola, they may be regretting the decision they made as the Italian has picked up just one victory since his appointment in December.

Zola's first three points came in early February when they narrowly overcame Fulham with a 1-0 victory, and it was the Blues' first win since the end of November - that run has seen them from Play-Off contenders to mid-table mediocracy.

In a season of mixed emotions for Birmingham City fans, they have seen a lot of promising signs at the club in the opening months of the campaign, but despite their January arrivals, results haven't really picked up.

As we gear up to the most crucial point in the campaign, here are TWO players who perhaps deserve more credit than they are currently receiving.....

David Davis

David Davis has been a prominent member of the first-team at Birmingham City for the entire season with his 30 appearances for the Blues, and with his consistent performances it's clear as to why.

The 25-year-old is almost a fan favourite at St. Andrew's now and supporters would have been devastated if the midfielder departed last month, after several reports suggested he would, but he stayed and the whole club will be glad.

Che Adams

The attacking midfielder arrived at Birmingham City from League One outfit Sheffield United in the summer for a fee of around  £2 million and the 20-year-old has proven his worth since.

Che Adams has appeared on 29 occasions for the Blues this season and deservedly so. He has performed week in, week out and Gianfranco Zola has put his trust in the youngster.

Adams has provided five assists and scored three goals for Birmingham during the 2016/17 campaign and although you expect something like that from a player who cost the fee which he did, he had always plied his trade in the third-tier and has comfortably adapted to life in the Championship.

Birmingham City supporters, do you agree with this list? Who else would you say has exceeded expectations?

Let us know your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!