Osayi-Samuel Handed Chance to Win Back Birmingham Starting Spot

Birmingham City manager Chris Davies has challenged Bright Osayi-Samuel to seize his chance and reclaim his starting position when the Blues host Watford at St Andrew’s on Saturday.

Osayi-Samuel joined from Fenerbahçe in the summer and made an encouraging start, especially in the 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town on the opening day. But a drop in form and an injury saw him lose his place to Japan international Tomoki Iwata, who was initially moved to right-back due to injuries in the squad. Iwata has since excelled, with Davies calling him “one of if not the best full-back in the league… he’s been exceptional.”

Iwata’s suspension for accumulated yellow cards now gives Osayi-Samuel a route back into the team. Davies stressed the club’s confidence in the 27-year-old, saying, “Bright has been brought in to be an important player for us… he made a good start then with injuries he found himself out of the team.” He added, “There’s an opportunity for Bright to come in and show what he can do because he’s an international player… and he’s been working well.”

Osayi-Samuel has made 13 appearances this season, and Saturday is set to be his first start since October. With home support behind him, he will aim to reignite his push for a regular place.