Swansea City missing key man for Birmingham City showdown

Swansea City are one player short of a full squad for the visit of Birmingham City on Saturday (3pm kick-off). The suspended Ryan Manning is serving the third match of his four-game ban and will miss the game.

Other than that head coach Russell Martin is at virtually full strength for Swans’ second game in three days and one in which they are looking for a sixth win in ten matches. By comparison Blues are looking to bounce back from taking just one point from two consecutive home matches.

Other than Manning, full-back Nathanael Ogbeta was left on the bench for Swansea’s dramatic 3-2 win over Peterborough United in midweek and it remains to be seen whether he will play a part on Saturday. “He’s been out for a long time,” Martin said.

“To ask him to play 90 minutes is a tough ask. He played 45 minutes for the under-23s. Fin Burns the same. He’s really got up to speed now. Nat’s in a good place.Nat’s not far away. I think the international break will be really important for him. Between now and the end of the season he’ll play a big part.”

The former Manchester City starlet joined the Swans on the final day of the January window but injury has restricted him to just one appearance off the bench - a 26-minute cameo against Blackpool.

One player who is fit is Michael Obafemi, who scored against Peterborough but who has been left out of the Republic of Ireland squad for the upcoming internationals. Ironically Blues ’ Scott Hogan has taken his place and the two could go head to head this weekend.

“I spoke to Stephen [Kenny],” Martin continued. “He was really interested in calling Michael. We both had a chat with Michael about the timing and what place he’s in physically.

“He’s played more football than he has for a long