Key player Vs. Derby

Merry Christmas Blues fans!

Gianfranco Zola takes his side to face high flying Derby County on Tuesday afternoon in what will be the Italian`s first away game as Blues manager.

We’ve had some great memories from our past few trips to the iPro stadium including last seasons magnificent 3-0 victory.

The match will mark the midway point in the season and, if Blues are going to take anything from the game, then I think that our star man to date this season will be key to it.

That man is, of course, Ryan Shotton.

When you talk about leading from the back, Shotton has most certainly done this and he’s had a huge influence on the side since he signed permanently in the summer from Tuesday`s opponents.

He will no doubt be wanting to show his former club what they are missing out on and prove a point to them.

Blues are going to need Shotton to be on top form to help prevent the likes of Tom Ince, Matej Vydra and Johnny Russell from breaking through our defence.

His ability on the ball, in the air and defending coupled with his leadership qualities can really play a big factor in the way Blues play.

Shotton is the type of player that likes to set the example from the minute go so hopefully he won’t be any different against Derby.

The Rams sit one place and two points above Blues in the Championship table so these games are crucial if we are going to have any chance of making the play-offs.

Taking points off fellow top-six contenders can really give the side a confidence boost as well as a points advantage in the table.

Have a great Christmas Blues fans and hopefully the team will provide us with three massive points come Tuesday teatime!