Birmingham City v West Bromwich Albion Betting Tips: Latest odds, team news, preview and predictions

Darren Moore's Baggies target Championship promotion, but our tipster expects Garry Monk's Blues to rise to the occasion in this Midlands derby

Birmingham City welcome neighbours West Bromwich Albion to St Andrew's for Friday night's Championship action.

The uncertainty amngst the home team, on and off the field, means that Blues are a massive 10/1 (11.0) outsiders with bet365 to make the top six, while their visitors are joint-third favourites for promotion at 15/8 (2.88) after a promising start.

Latest odds

Birmingham beat the Baggies 2-0 in the last Championship meeting between these sides back in October 2006 and are 23/10 (3.30) to record another win here.

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This time however, West Brom are the favourites for the clash between tertiary rivals, with Darren Moore’s side available at 6/5 (2.20) to record a fourth league victory of the campaign.

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A draw, which has occurred in all three of Blues’ home games this season, is 9/4 (3.25).

Team News

After Garry Monk saw his side draw 0-0 with QPR prior to the international break, striker Omar Bogle may come in for Che Adams. Ball-winner David Davis though is still sidelined.

West Brom have no fresh injury concerns so an unchanged starting eleven from the one that beat Stoke last time out seems likely.

Blues to show spirit?

Whilst West Brom have been great to watch at the Hawthorns, they have taken just four points from a possible nine on the road and their opponents have had the better of the play in arguably all three games.

Equally, the Blues are in a position of adversity but a home derby game can sometimes galvanize a club and contribute to a high-intensity performance.

For that reason, the 10/3 (4.33) on Birmingham to win with Under 4 goals via bet365's Bet Builder appeals because if the hosts accrue three points, it is likely to be after a tight encounter.

Preview and predictions

However, the more conservative option of the 7/10 (1.70) on Birmingham to win or draw looks a better option and will land if Monk’s men avoid defeat. Backed by a likely fervent atmosphere, they should be able to achieve that.

Odds correct at the time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.