This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Birmingham City are in something of a slump after a third consecutive defeat in their league fixture at Wigan Athletic last time out, a result that came hot on the tail of defeats against Preston and Derby County.

The Blues are now down in 14th place in the table and manager Pep Clotet will be looking to get back to winning ways when his side host Middlesbrough on Friday night.

So is pressure starting to mount on Clotet after three consecutive defeats?

We discuss........

Toby Wilding

"The pressure is growing.

"Prior to this run, it had been a reasonably encouraging start to the season under Clotet for Birmingham, although it does now appear as though things are turning against him.

"In fairness, there was very little he could have done about Lee Camp's blunder at Wigan on Tuesday night, but I do think the fact they struggled to look a threat against the Latics - who themselves have endured a slow start to the season - will be something of a concern.

"With another side who are struggling at the minute in the shape of Middlesbrough to come at the weekend, I do think Clotet needs a result there, or else this failure to pick up points to back up their start to the season, will surely start to raise some significant questions and concerns."

Chris Gallagher

"Yes, and I think he should be.

"In terms of results, Blues are still having an acceptable season, however anyone who saw them play earlier in the campaign will say they have been lucky to pick up as many points as they have.

"The way they have played all season has been alarming and results are now starting to reflect that.

"Whilst Clotet comes across well when he speaks, you could argue he was lucky to land the job in the first place given his lack of experience, so he won't have the time that other managers would have. Things need to pick up quickly or I can see the unpredictable Blues board making a change."

Dean Cooke

"Not yet, I think they were mightily unlucky in their last two fixtures. At Derby they had so many chances but failed to put them to bed, whilst at Wigan a keeping error meant they faced defeat.

"Clotet will know he needs victories very soon, but you have to expect that it'll take time for a very new look side to gel at St. Andrews.

"It's too early to tell whether they have a better side than last season but they have to find a way to replace Che Adams' goals or it could be a long season for Clotet and Birmingham."