Well, I’m sure we’d all agree that Sunday sees a perfect opportunity for Blues to pick up maximum points, against a side that is without all their four first choice strikers…
James Beattie is out with a broken toe, Kevin Phillips with a calf injury and Peter Crouch is still roughly five weeks away from returning after a knee injury. Brett Ormerod is at present with Leeds on loan, which expires on Saturday, but understandably it is unfair to ask him to play two games in two days – even though he may want to.
Julian Gray – proving last weekend his versatility wide and full back on the left side could start at left back...due to the injury of Stanley. Also with Jesper Gronkjaer the left side is all of a sudden looking bright, fresh and exciting, along with the right side.
Blues are starting to settle down, and playing off and for each other, which was a much-needed requirement. Now the new players are beginning to get used to the way Blues are well known for playing – defensive football.
It is noticeable, that even without Mikael Forssell…Blues are getting much better offensively, Dwight Yorke has settled in very well, and is playing well with his new partner, Emile.
Sunday Blues will be without the services of Clint and Stan - but let's just hope Blues can carry on the run that hasn't seen us beat in three games...and maybe get some decent victories under our belts to rise higher in the league of dreams.
Bruce and a large minority of his first team men will only have a win in their minds as they prepare to travel south, to Southampton.
Saints could possibly see the return of Graeme Le Saux, Chris Baird, and Claus Lundekvam. The trio were all forced to sit-out last weekends 1-0 defeat at Goodison Park.
This weekend should see Blues return back in Birmingham with all three points, after all when a team (Saints) has all their four, first choice strikers out then the opposition (Blues) should punish them by snatching maximum points. Admittedly, when youngsters are given a chance to shine in the first team of their club they will do all in their power to score and remain in the thoughts of the manager’s first team selection.
This game will be interesting for both teams, but more so for Southampton, with the problems that are currently surrounding the club. Southampton, as a club - do need to win, but likewise so too do Blues.
Saints and Blues will be up for it, so it should be an entertaining Sunday afternoon for both teams and I’m sure there will be some heated players and tackles flying in, as both teams are hungry for a victory.
This week I feel Blues will have that edge over Southampton, and will take advantage of them having various injuries. Therefore this week I am slightly happier than last week to predict an away win.
E-Mail Leigh direct: bcfcleigh@aol.com