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Grounds for Praise

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Che Adams has been awarded ‘goal of the month’ for September, and rightly so. But the goal was created by unarguably the cross of the season so far by Blues’ left back Jonathan Grounds.

Grounds’ game has often been criticised by some sections of supporters who wanted him replaced by a new signing. That new signing arrived in the shape of loanee Rhoys Wiggins. But the Welshman, on loan from Bournemouth, has had to bide his time. Due to a niggling injury and Grounds’ recent impressive performances, Wiggins has been unable to force his way into the first team reckoning.

He finally got his first piece of action on Saturday against Blackburn as a second half substitute in place of Jacques Maghoma.

Wiggins’ signing was seen as a way to strengthen the left hand side of defence but, perhaps coincidentally, Grounds has been almost faultless since Gary Rowett temporarily drafted in the 28 year-old former Wales U21 defender.

Was criticism of Grounds just? Maybe so. Overall, he’s a decent footballer and does a steady job most of the time. But his tendency to make the odd error has kept the critics knocking at the door.

But even Grounds’ most harshest of critics would struggle to find a justifiable reason to lambast his performances in recent weeks.

A free transfer from Oldham Athletic, 28 year-old Grounds – who has notched up 107 appearances for Blues in just over two seasons – represents a fantastic piece of business by former manager Lee Clark.

He has his faults, like most footballers and humans do. However, his commitment is second to none, his ability is better than his detractors would have us believe and his recent form is outstanding.

Inevitably, a mistake will be waiting round the corner and will encourage his critics to rise again. But over the course of a season, Grounds is a consistent performer.

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