Gianfranco Zola: the positives

Life was always going to be tough for Gianfranco Zola after the fixture list conspired to give Blues back to back games against Brighton and Derby.

After two defeats in his opening two games, Rob Wildey takes the positives of Zola’s reign so far.

PASSING MENTALITY

For an hour against Brighton and in spells against Derby, the passing style of play that Zola wishes to drill into his team was evident.

Against Brighton at St. Andrews, Blues were the better side for long periods but caved in late on. At Derby, the first half performance wasn’t bad. Blues moved the ball well but lacked in the final third.

There is signs that this style of play can work and some players are taking to it better than others. With a few more suitable signings, perhaps this could be a good thing for Blues.

GLEESON & DAVIS

Gleeson and Davis are two players who have impressed in Zola’s two games at the helm. In a midfield three, Gleeson has sat deep and used the ball well. Davis has been the legs of the midfield, driving, harassing and breaking up play – his distribution has also been much better too.

BOLD TEAM SELECTIONS

Zola has so far favoured a system of 433 when attacking and 451 when defending. The two wingers supporting Jutkiewicz can work in the Championship. But what Blues need is more pace and a winger who can deliver better balls more often. So far, Greg Stewart isn’t looking like he can threaten defences and Jacques Maghoma has only just returned from injury and will soon be off to the African Cup of Nations.

Could Che Adams or Viv Solomon-Otabor fill the wide berths perhaps?

JANUARY ON THE HORIZON

With the transfer window just around the corner, Zola will want to add to his squad. Blues aren’t flush with cash but you’d be foolish to think that the side fielded against Derby will be the same team to finish the season. It’ll be interesting to see who comes in and possibly out.