Birmingham City were beaten by Bristol City on Saturday as their difficult start continued, with Demarai Gray only suitable for an off-bench role.
Birmingham City saw a solitary goal from Sinclair Armstrong make the difference in their defeat to Bristol City.
It was another frustrating performance from BCFC. It was one that head coach Chris Davies was once again criticized for, with sections of the support initially criticizing his move to name winger Demarai Gray among the substitutes.
Although he managed just one goal and one assist in twelve championship games, Gray’s quality stood out since his return to St. Andrew. If the Blues are to fill the table as desired, the 29-year-old will be key.
After the match, Davies revealed the Birmingham City star has suffered a minor injury, hence his absence from the starting XI at Ashton Gate.
And if City want to give themselves the best possible chance of achieving anything this season, they need to exercise the same level of caution – if not more – when it comes to Gray’s fitness.
The importance of Demarai Gray to Birmingham City
Gray’s career trajectory since first leaving Birmingham City in 2016 has left many keen to welcome him back for a reunion in the summer. Expectations were high, so some may feel that one goal and one assist is a bit disappointing.
However, the underlying numbers behind his play are very impressive. It shows his best work goes somewhat unrewarded in a largely failed BCFC attack.
Gray is among the Championship’s top players in terms of expected assists (2.33), successful crosses (11), successful dribbles (14) and fouls won (18). These stats show the creative threat he has posed; and how those he offers opportunities to fail him.
492 touches show how confident he is in possession, and his total of 50 duels won and an aerial duel win rate of 55.6% show how much defensive work he endures for such an attack-oriented player.
All statistics via FotMob
Birmingham City must be careful with the fitness of Demarai Gray
If Birmingham City were to lose someone so central to their attack and creation it would be a huge blow. He is someone the Blues turn to for a spark, knowing he can be trusted in possession and supported to create chances for his teammates.
It means that despite the frustration over his benching on Saturday, it was more than justified. Regardless, BCFC needs to prioritize his fitness and availability in the long term, so in future cases it might be safer to leave him out of the equation entirely.
If that’s the case, City have a number of attackers who need to step up.
Birmingham City’s winger options
| Player | Goals | Assists |
| Patrick Roberts | 1 | 1 |
| Keshi Anderson | 0 | 0 |
| Lewis Koumas | 0 | 0 |
| Scott Wright (inj.) | 0 | 0 |
To point out the attacking shortcomings of wingers alone is a bit too harsh. Apart from Jay Stansfield, no one in Birmingham City’s squad has been up to par in front of goal.
It’s time for the Blues forwards to step up and show that when someone like Gray needs a rest, there is someone who can step into his shoes and lead Davies’ side to results.
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