Birmingham suffered a disappointing loss against local rivals Aston Villa last time out that keeps the side in a relegation battle.

A positive run in 2018 had generated belief that Blues could pick something up at their high-flying rivals but the reality was Villa merited their two-goal victory.

With all the sides below Steve Cotterill’s men picking up points it means Birmingham are now firmly back in a relegation scrap.

However, there’s no doubt that performances over recent months suggest Blues should have more than enough to stay in the division with Cotterill finally finding the right formula.

The ex-Bristol City boss has come through a difficult start and once survival is guaranteed he will be looking at what he can do to ensure the club are competing at the other end of the table next season.

Whilst new arrivals will be needed, some of the current crop will be shifted out and here we look at two players that could depart St. Andrew’s.

In fairness to Lowe, he has rarely had a chance to play and when he has featured he has done well on the whole.

Yet, managers have their preferences and for whatever reason Lowe is not really rated by Cotterill.

Central midfield is a major issue for the Blues and new signings will have to be made to strengthen that department in the summer, so if Lowe can’t get in now he has little chance come August.

Therefore, a move seems inevitable and it would benefit all parties.

The big striker is another who has failed to make a significant impact under Cotterill and one goal in 22 appearances this season is not good enough.

Jutkiewicz has obvious strengths and could be a decent player at this level, as he has shown in the past, but it’s hard to see a future for him at St. Andrew’s.

With Isaac Vassell returning from injury next season and at least one but probably two strikers sure to be a priority in the summer for the low-scoring side, Jutkiewicz will have to go elsewhere to get game time.

Thoughts, Blues fans? Let us know in the comments below.