What a weekend of Championship football we have on offer, and it all begins tonight as league leaders Cardiff City travel to Birmingham City in what will be Steve Cotterill's first game in charge.

The hosts will be looking for a reaction after losing 6-1 to Hull City last time out, whereas the Welsh side can open up a four-point lead at the top, even if it's just for one night.

Despite the hugely contrasting starts both sides have made to the season, EFL pundit David Prutton is predicting a close encounter at St. Andrew's.

Writing his regular column for Sky Sports, the former Leeds midfielder has gone for a 1-1 draw tonight, with big Birmingham striker Lukas Jutkiewicz to open the scoring.

Cotterill has been boosted by the news that key attacking duo Che Adams and Jota are stepping up their recoveries, although they may be restricted to the bench.

However, they will provide additional creativity and speed in the final third, something that Blues have seriously been lacking in recent games.

As for Cardiff, they will be looking to go five games unbeaten and stretch their lead over Wolves, who play Aston Villa tomorrow evening.

The Verdict

You can't really read too much into Birmingham's position, given they are getting key players back and have a new manager.

Tonight will be a stern test for Cardiff and Prutton's prediction of a score draw seems very fair. The Birmingham squad has the talent to compete with any on their day and Cotterill will be hoping he can get the best out of them.

It's a venue the away side have struggled with over the years, with just one win in their previous 13 meetings.

What do you think Birmingham and Cardiff fans? Who will get the win tonight? Let us know in the comments below.