Could this 17-year-old feature against Oxford United?

Earlier today, Birmingham City’s under 21’s side swept also Nuneaton Town 5-2, but there was a familiar face missing from the side.

Ronan Hale, a 17-year-old striker, who has been one of the most prolific goal scorers at Blues over the past season or so, wasn’t included in the squad that was 4-1 up at half time which could indicate that he is in Gary Rowett’s squad for this evenings game (August 9th).

In July, Blues upped Hale’s progression by promoting him to the under 21’s side permanently and with Rowett hinting that he will use some of the younger, hungrier players for the game against League One Oxford United, Hale may be a surprise name on the team sheet.

Personally, I think it would be great to see yet another youngster get a chance in the first team, even if it is only 10 minutes off the bench.

However, a place on the bench is probably where Hale will be if he is even in the squad with the likes of Jack Storer and James Vaughan expected to get the nod with Rowett hinting that he may use two strikers for first round of the cup.

Blues fans, would you like to see Ronan Hale given a shot in this evenings game? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section down below!