Let the Midfield Battle Commence

All the talk throughout the summer has related to Blues` need for new striker. But never before has the battle for the two starting central midfield berths been so closely contested.

 

With Stephen Gleeson, Maikel Kieftenbeld, David Davis and new signing Robert Tesche all staking their claim – and with Reece Brown and Charlee Adams likely to be the beneficiaries of any absence – it`s difficult to comprehend what Gary Rowett`s favoured pairing is.

He must consider the opposition. A home game against a side who will sit back and attempt to frustrate Blues may call for a Gleeson and Tesche partnership. Gleeson is a competent passer of the ball and Tesche is of the more orthodox style.

For a game against a top side, or an away game against a possession based side, Davis and Kieftenbeld may be more suitable candidates. Davis is often the spoiler of opposition attacks and, although his distribution can sometimes leave a lot to be desired, his breaking up of play can be a useful attribute alongside Kieftenbeld`s never ending engine.

Just as you start to think Davis is out of favour, he pops up with a decent display to claw his way back into the manager`s thoughts. Rowett will enjoy a selection headache of this type.

A big positive for Blues is the fact they have four established Championship players vying for two starting places – and a couple of promising youngsters itching to be involved. In a long, gruelling season, competition for places is vital and is something Blues severely lacked last season.

If we can just bring in a other striker and another left full-back to add extra options, we`ll be watching a half decent squad.