Birmingham City's former politician Chris Davies climbs up as the football club makes a comeback to the Championship league
Birmingham City Prepares for Championship Debut Under Chris Davies' Leadership
After a historic League One campaign, Birmingham City is set to make its mark in the Championship under the guidance of manager Chris Davies. Last season, the team showcased a possession-heavy and high-intensity style of play, which propelled them to an unprecedented 111 points and 34 wins – the highest ever in English football’s third tier [1][2].
Davies' approach emphasizes controlling the game through possession, creating a dynamic and confident team that "dominates" opponents rather than letting up once promotion was secured [1]. This strategy allowed Birmingham to maintain momentum even when stepping up to a more competitive league.
Recognizing the need to strengthen the squad ahead of the Championship season, Davies is focusing on recruitment and retention this summer. The club has been active in the transfer market, signing players like Kyogo Furuhashi, Tommy Doyle, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Marvin Ducksch, and Demarai Gray, among others [1].
One player Davies has highlighted as a key figure is Jay Stansfield. The manager compares Stansfield's style to that of Jamie Vardy, praising his energy, hard work, technique, and intelligence [1].
Birmingham City's impressive form last season did not go unnoticed. The team ranked fourth in the list of teams with the most possession across a season in England's top four tiers since 2013/14 [3]. Davies' nomination for the EFL Awards is a testament to the success of his style and its impact on the club [1][5].
As Birmingham City prepares for its first Championship match against Ipswich Town, the team is optimistic about its chances. Davies believes his side can find success in the Championship, stating that there is great belief in the squad's ability to "kick on with momentum" [2].
However, Davies reminds everyone that Birmingham City is a promoted team, highlighting the difficulty of the Championship. Despite this, the manager believes that his side can improve the quality of the squad while preserving the culture they have built [4].
Under Davies' leadership, Birmingham City has transformed from a club enduring "chaos" to a confident, well-organized side capable of competing in the Championship immediately after their historic League One dominance [1][2]. The team's possession-based philosophy, combined with strong team motivation and progressive development, promises an exciting season ahead.
[1] - BBC Sport [2] - The Athletic [3] - Squawka Football [4] - The Guardian [5] - EFL Awards
- Birmingham City's success in League One, evident in their record-breaking 111 points and 34 wins, demonstrates the effectiveness of a sports-analysis focused on possessing the ball and playing with high intensity.
- As the Championship debut of Birmingham City approaches, Chris Davies is prioritizing the recruitment and retention of players, including signing football players like Kyogo Furuhashi, Tommy Doyle, and Demarai Gray.
- The team's focus on health and fitness, along with their passion for sports and European-leagues, is reflected in their possession-heavy and high-intensity style of play that has earned them praise from critics and enthusiasts alike.
- Despite the challenges of the Championship, Birmingham City is optimistic about maintaining the momentum they built in League One, thanks in part to the energy, hard work, and intelligence of players like Jay Stansfield, whose style has been compared to that of Jamie Vardy.
