Facing a serious battle to avoid relegation, Birmingham have been rocked by James McFadden operation blow.

The Blues, who are currently just a place and a point above the drop zone, have had to act quickly and get the Scottish forward’s knee operated. He had missed the defeat to Reading on Saturday.

"He went to see the surgeon and had keyhole surgery for a meniscus tear to his cartilage," said Blues manager Alex McLeish.

"It's a huge blow to us because he's been in scintillating form and he's brought a lot to the team, but what can you do about it?

"We reckon he'll be out for at least three games (including the loss to Reading).

"But it's up to the others now to step up to the plate."