00:00Birmingham City's Championship return has been marked by promise and a few setbacks,
00:06most notably the absence of talisman Jay Stansfield.
00:10A 23-year-old striker who netted 19 goals in League One to help secure promotion
00:15missed the 2-0 defeat at Leicester after picking up an ankle injury in the Carabao Cup loss to Port Vale.
00:23Chris Davis, cautious but confident, insists this isn't an issue long-term
00:27and stressed that he will monitor Stansfield week by week rather than rushing him back.
00:33The Blues have felt the impact of his absence in his early Championship appearances.
00:39Stansfield's influence was immediate.
00:42He scored the equaliser in a 1-1 opener against Ipswich and converted a penalty in a dramatic turnaround at Blackburn
00:51despite being struck on the head by a thrown object post-match.
00:55His finishing presence and composure in key moments have already demonstrated why he is central to Birmingham's plans.
01:04Returning to the Championship after a dominant League One campaign has exposed the team to a higher level of competition,
01:12Davis' strategy has been pragmatic, protecting his key forward while the squad finds rhythm in a tougher division.
01:19Even without Stansfield, Birmingham showed competitive spirit, though they lacked the cutting edge their top scorer provides.
01:29Stansfield's quick impact before injury underlines his importance to Blues' attacking identity.
01:35His return, expected after the international break, will be crucial in sustaining momentum
01:40and securing points in a league where margins are fine.
01:44If managed carefully, his fitness and form could make the difference in tight fixtures,
01:49enabling Birmingham to build on their early performances and solidify their Championship status.
01:56For now, patience is key.
01:58Davis' cautious approach prioritises the long-term health of his striker,
02:02ensuring that when Stansfield returns, he can lead the line with full strength and confidence.
02:06His presence is central to Birmingham's hopes of making their mark back in the second tier.
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