After a tough start to the season, Birmingham City are starting to show the sort of form that should mean they avoid relegation with ease.

Garry Monk's men have drawn too many games, but they have won two of their last four which has pushed them up to 17th in the table ahead of a game against Stoke after the international break.

Incredibly, only Leeds and Nottingham Forest have lost fewer games than Blues, who have tasted defeat just twice in the Championship this season.

Given the summer they had, with a transfer embargo restricting what Monk could do in the market, it's a fine achievement.

And, he will hope that he can sign some new players in January to help his squad.

That would also allow Monk to send some promising youngsters out on loan, which will help their career development.

Here we look at TWO players who could depart in the winter window...

The talented youngster was rewarded with a three-year deal, with another 12 months as an option, last season, highlighting how highly-rated he is at Blues.

Only 18-years-old, Stirk hasn't been able to breakthrough yet but he is still a talent for Monk's men.

A move could see him come back a much better player, potentially ready to make an impact on the first-team from next summer.

The forward is another bright prospect and has been on the fringes of the first-team this season.

Lubala played in the League Cup earlier this season and made a late appearance as a sub against Rotherham last time out.

However, he is still a long way away from establishing himself as a regular, whilst new additions in January could push him further down the pecking order.

Therefore, getting minutes elsewhere would benefit his career.

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