please log in to view this image BIRMINGHAM CITY v WATFORD please log in to view this image St. Andrew's Stadium Saturday 16thMarch 2024 Kick Off : 1500 GMT please log in to view this image In the ever-competitive landscape of the EFL Championship, this Saturday's clash between Birmingham City and Watford at St. Andrew's is no exception, encapsulating the trials and tribulations of two clubs enduring seasons far removed from their aspirations. As they prepare to face off, both sides find themselves in a situation where victory is not just desired but necessitated by their respective predicaments. Sitting precariously at 21st in the table with 39 points from 37 games, the spectre of relegation looms large over the Blues. The decision to part ways with John Eustace, who had steered the club to a promising 7th place early in the season, has backfired. Under the stewardship of Tony Mowbray, Birmingham have struggled to find form, winless in their last five outings and suffering four defeats in the process. Their most recent setback, a 0-1 loss at home to Middlesbrough, exemplifies the challenges they've faced in translating performances into points. Despite a generally better record at St. Andrew's, with three wins in their last five home games, the Blues have faltered when it matters most, losing their last two on home soil. The dismissal of Valérien Ismaël and the subsequent appointment of Tom Cleverly on an interim basis highlights a club in transition, searching for stability and a return to winning ways. The Hornets' form heading into this clash is far from convincing, with a record of one win, one draw, and three losses in their last five matches. Their recent defeat at home to Coventry City, despite an early lead through Ryan Porteous, underscores the vulnerabilities that have plagued their season. Team News Jeremy Ngakia (knee ligaments) and Ken Sema (hamstring) remain under the care of the Watford medical team. There is hope that Giorgi Chakvetadze's injury is not as bad as first thought, but he will not be available this Saturday. Wesley Hoedt is not injured, but added to his collection of yellow cards meaning he is suspended for this game. The Blues will be without Siriki Dembele, Keshi Anderson,Krystian Bielik and Marc Roberts. Birmingham City will, though, have Captain, Dion Sanderson, available after he completed his three-match suspension. Our Officials MATTHEW DONOHUEPaul Hodskinson and Andrew Fox Fourth Official : Darren Drysdale please log in to view this image
Good luck Tom ! Let’s hope it’s a successful start . This is probably our best chance for 3 points with the games to come .
I for one have hope in the new appointment of TC. My expections of all the rest except Zola have decreased with each journeyman appointment. And yes I did regard Hodgson and Ranieri as journeymen at that stage of their careers. Doesn't the introduction of hope give you a big lift. I will be taking my phone and listening to Jon Marks this afternoon at my allottment.
Not to mention because he is playing. Some of the comments are unfathomable - yes he has made mistakes which cost us points, but you have to wonder where the haters were when his saves won us points and/or saved us from losing heavily.
Afternoon all. A new chapter begins. This stream is up and running http://www.fawanews.com/Birmingham City vs Watford FC.html Enjoy the game all and COYH
