Tony Mowbray files a permanent transfer request after Jay Stansfield scores again for Birmingham City

Tony Mowbray is optimistic Birmingham City can maintain top scorer Jay Stansfield and has hinted at a potential permanent transfer in the future.

On-loan Fulham forward Stansfield scored his ninth goal of the season, helping Blues upset Stoke City 2-1 at the Bet365 Stadium on Saturday. Stansfield scored twice in three games under Mowbray, including against Hull City in midweek.

The 21-year-old was at the forefront of the celebrations after the Blues achieved only their third away win in the Championship this season. Mowbray has also emphasized how much Stansfield is enjoying his time at St Andrew’s.

“I talk to him most days, he is really enjoying his football and he’s scoring goals,” Mowbray said. “Would he like to come back for 10 minutes here and there and sit on the bench? In my perspective, a young athlete should want to play, score, and demonstrate his abilities.

“We have no control over what happens if they call him back. I don’t anticipate it. Let’s just appreciate him while we still have him.”

Stansfield signed a new four-year contract with Fulham before joining the Blues last August. The Cottagers rate him highly and have already given him Premier League experience. However, if the opportunity to sign Stansfield on a permanent basis arises, Mowbray believes the Blues should take it.

The Blues manager added: “I believe we should definitely be looking for (Stansfield) if there is a number where he could come and play here. I believe he enjoys it that much.

“He would want to play in the Premier League if he thought he was going to play there, but I’m very sure he doesn’t want to sit on the bench; I’m sure he’d rather play in the Championship and score goals. It’s not our decision; it’s Fulham’s, but I know he’s enjoying it.”