Benitez set to start in derby

A player that caught our eye on match day 1 could well land the lead role for his club this weekend where Alex McLeish aims to hand a first league start to Birmingham City's Christian Benitez in Sunday's derby with Aston Villa.

LOOKING DANGEROUS...

The former Scotland manager said: "I've felt in recent weeks that Christian was more effective as an impact player.

"But that may change in a week's time (against Villa). If I can't play him at home, then I will never play him.

"I am pleased with his introduction so far and we have worked hard on his fitness.

"When he came here, he was behind the rest - along with Giovanny Espinoza - in fitness terms.

"Christian is at a good level now and looking dangerous and I think he is going to be a great acquisition to the club."

McLeish will check on Benitez's physical condition when he comes back from a World Cup double header with his country before making a final decision.

He was in action in Colombia at the weekend and Ecuador will tackle Bolivia in midweek.
Benitez, signed from Santos Laguna, has impressed as a substitute during the opening phase of the season.

The Ecuador international has gradually been gaining full fitness after undergoing shoulder surgery at the beginning of the summer.And McLeish is intimating he will promote him to the first XI for the encounter with Martin O'Neill's side.

Other than his goal scoring potential, due to this lads speed he could well spring a few offside traps this season - one to keep an eye on with a few to a low downside sell in the future