Tomoki Iwata and Kyogo Furuhashi were sidelined from Birmingham City’s intense FA Cup match against Leeds United because of injury concerns.
Iwata, who made headlines last year with a stunning goal against Newcastle United in the FA Cup, and fellow Japanese forward Kyogo were absent from the Blues’ lineup in the closely contested encounter. Despite missing these key players, Birmingham City pushed Premier League outfit Leeds all the way before eventually succumbing 4-2 in the penalty shoot-out after a 1-1 draw in regular and extra time. Patrick Roberts leveled the score after Lukas Nmecha had given Leeds the lead.
In his post-match press conference, manager Chris Davies explained the absence of Iwata and Kyogo, confirming both are dealing with minor injuries. “Both injury issues but not big ones. I’m pretty sure they are both minor ones,” Davies reassured.
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Iwata, who had been managing some niggles recently, was rested in the midweek Championship match against West Bromwich Albion, which ended in a 0-0 draw. That fixture marked the only Championship game this season he has missed when available.
Davies revealed that Iwata suffered a hip knock during the game against Oxford United two weeks ago and is also managing other minor issues. “He’s got a couple of things. He’s been playing more minutes than anyone else and naturally he’s taken a bit of a break but we’re confident that he’s feeling better day by day so I’m hoping he’ll be OK moving forward,” Davies added optimistically.
With careful management, Birmingham City hope to see both Iwata and Kyogo back to full fitness soon as they look ahead to the remainder of the season.