The last derby between these teams resulted in catapulting
Birmingham's season to unexpected heights as they are now placed 8th and 13 points from relegation worries. Their disappointing 3-0 road loss to Chelsea was Birmingham's first league defeat in 12 matches. However, the Blues sprung back last week with a home draw against Top Four hopefuls Tottenham Hotspur. With such a positive start for the new arrivals, it is surprising that
Alex Mcleish was unable to attract any big name signings in the January transfer window. He did manage to bolster his midfield with the signing of Craig Gardner and Michel, both of whom may debut in this match. Selection problems will include the injuries of Parnaby, Tainio, Murphy, Carsley and O'Connor. Striker
Kevin Phillips is healthy again and will likely start this match on the bench. The Blues are 5-5-2 at home but have surprisingly averaged only 0.83 goals scored to 0.58 conceded. This is indicative of the manager's usual defensive approach and he will adopt the same mentality for the derby with Wolverhampton.
The Wolves' FA Cup exit at the hands of Crystal Palace has further dented the players' optimism about this season. After picking up just 2 points from their last 5 games,
Wolverhampton have avoided the relegation zone on goal difference alone. Wolves have not scored in 4 of their last 5 matches, but this will be forgotten as they hope for revenge against bitter rivals Birmingham. The first derby of this year took place at Wolves' home ground where they were unable to overturn the lead after a third minute goal by Birmingham.
Mick McCarthy made the decision to rest
Kevin Doyle, Stephen Ward and Matt Jarvis for the FA Cup game against Crystal Palace and they will be fresh for this important match. Edwards, Kightly, Murray and Keogh will all remain sidelined. Despite their poor record while away, all previous stats can be thrown away in a storied derby like this.
Birmingham has been the better of the two teams statistically, but Wolverhampton have rested several key players who will be looking to do some serious damage against their rivals. Both managers will adopt a defensive approach as either would be happy to come away with just a point.
Wolverhampton's determination and need for points should keep them in this match for at least a point.
Birmingham City vs Wolverhampton Wanderers
Sunday January 7, 2010
Kickoff: 14:30 CET
Venue: St. Andrew's Ground (Birmingham)
Tip: Wolverhampton +0.5 (Asian Handicap)
Best Odds: 2.08 @ Bet365
