Birmingham City manager Chris Davies has stated that Dion Sanderson and Lee Buchanan are both making progress in their recovery from injuries.
Birmingham City had a very busy summer transfer window, with few members of last season’s side remaining for the League One promotion campaign.
The Blues embarked on a massive reconstruction of their ranks, and many of those implicated in their relegation from the Championship were moved on. It paved the way for a slew of new recruits as they seek to return to the second tier in style under former Tottenham Hotspur boss Chris Davies.
However, defenders Dion Sanderson and Lee Buchanan have remained on board. Neither has played much this season due to injuries, with centre-back Sanderson appearing twice and former Derby County teenager Buchanan yet to make his debut.
However, in an encouraging update, the Birmingham City pair appear to be on the verge of returning.
Speaking ahead of this weekend’s match against Rotherham United, manager Davies said that while Sanderson is a little behind Buchanan on the comeback trial, the defender has been out on the pitch. He will not be available against the Millers, although it is unclear whether Buchanan will be engaged.
The Gaffer provides an injury update 💬
"Dion has just joined back in light training but it's doubtful he will be available.
"Lee Buchanan is further ahead than Dion and doing well, it's been good to see him back out there." pic.twitter.com/hTPXgt2zUr
— Birmingham City FC (@BCFC) September 19, 2024
Fighting for starts
Sanderson and Buchanan have already demonstrated their ability to be key Championship performances, but despite coming down to League One with Birmingham City, they may face uphill struggles in the push for a starting position.
Sanderson, who captained the Blues last season, struggled at the back in his first full season with the club. He’ll have to beat out Krystian Bielik or Christoph Klarer for the starting slot, with Ben Davies also in contention.
At left-back, City paid a reasonable price to bring Alex Cochrane down from Hearts.
Since signing, the former Brighton prospect has had a positive influence and appears to be at ease. The same will be true for Buchanan, but gaining his support will be a difficult task.
Building on the strong start
Birmingham City are anticipated to blast to the League One title this season following a heavy summer of investment, and if they can keep up their current form, they should feel confident.
Davies’ side has won four of their first five games and drawn once. It puts them second in the table behind Wrexham and level on points with Charlton Athletic, but both of those teams have played an extra game.
This Saturday, the Blues will be looking to pile more misery on Rotherham United, who have had a disappointing start despite a productive summer of their own.
Steve Evans’ players will undoubtedly pose a challenge, so they must be at their best away from home.
