Is Brown ahead of Shinnie in pecking order?

Before I start writing this piece, I`ll disclose early on that I may be entirely wrong in what I am about to say. But reading between the lines, Reece Brown`s inclusion ahead of Andy Shinnie from the bench against Roda JC on Saturday may indicate the order of Gary Rowett`s thinking.

Deigo Fabbrini will play, that much is obvious. But his main competition, it was assumed, was Shinnie but that may no longer be the case.

Brown deserves massive credit for taking last seasons suspension from club duties on the chin and grasping this chance, probably his last chance, with both hands. And during a mixed pre-season campaign for the players, Brown has been one of the brightest lights.

On the ball, he is calm, clever and has added a work rate to his game that was severely lacking previously.

Obviously, Rowett may have different ideas. He may be running the rule over Brown to decide whether or not to ship him out on loan or make him third wheel behind Fabbrini and Shinnie. But it is my guess that he is as close to the first team picture as he ever has been.

If that is the case, Shinnie`s Blues future looks in doubt. After an unsuccessful loan spell at Rotherham last season, he has returned to the club in great shape and full of hope. But this season could be do or die for him.