Scott Wright is poised to make his long-awaited return for Birmingham City in today’s FA Cup tie against Cambridge United, marking his first appearance in more than ten months. The Scottish winger has been sidelined since a serious knee injury sustained during the goalless draw against Reading on February 22 last year. After recently returning to the bench for the victory over Coventry City, Wright could see playing time as Blues manager Chris Davis plans to rotate his squad following a congested festive schedule.
“It’s great news for Scott,” said Davis. “He’s worked incredibly hard during his recovery, and the whole squad is excited to have him back after such a long absence.”
However, the positive news is tempered by the fact that Birmingham City will be without five players for the match. Alex Cochrane and Demarai Gray join long-term injured Ethan Laird and Lee Buchanan in missing out, while Bright Osayi-Samuel remains away representing Nigeria at the Africa Cup of Nations.
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Here’s the latest on the Blues’ injury situation:
Ankle Injury – Alex Cochrane
Cochrane, a consistent presence in his debut season, has been sidelined recently due to an ankle problem. He has missed five of the last seven games with this injury and remains some way off returning. “Alex has an ankle issue and will be out for a few weeks,” Davis confirmed on January 8. “He’s going to be one we miss for a while.”
Calf Injury – Demarai Gray
Gray sustained a calf injury during the Boxing Day fixture against Derby County and has missed the last three matches. Despite being in excellent form prior to the injury, he is not expected back soon. “We’re looking into February for Demarai’s return,” said Davis. “Originally, it was estimated as six weeks, but he’s professional and a quick healer, so hopes remain.”
Hamstring Injury – Ethan Laird
Laird has been out since suffering a hamstring injury during the defeat to Coventry on September 27. Davis anticipates his return to team training around February, following a high-grade hamstring injury. “Ethan is making steady progress and should start training with the group again in February,” the manager explained.
Knee Injury – Lee Buchanan
Buchanan is 12 months into recovery after a knee injury and recently resumed light training. With the acquisitions of Kai Wagner and the availability of Cochrane at left-back, Birmingham City are under no pressure to rush Buchanan back to full fitness.
Despite these setbacks, the return of Scott Wright offers a welcome boost as Birmingham City prepare to face Cambridge United with a reshuffled squad.