Birmingham City fans could be set for positive news as defender Lee Buchanan edges closer to his long-awaited return following a significant calf injury.
Having yet to feature this season, the 23-year-old left-back has been sidelined since pre-season. However, reports suggest the international break is providing a timely opportunity for him to regain full fitness, potentially enabling his comeback in the near future.
International Break Provides Window for Recovery
Buchanan, who joined the Blues from Werder Bremen last year on a five-year deal, has missed the club’s opening games this season. The young left-back has been undergoing intensive rehabilitation to address his calf injury, which has kept him out of competitive play for over three months.
Buchanan’s progress has accelerated in recent weeks, and he is now “working his way back” to fitness. The international break could well be the final push he needs to return to match readiness.
The timing of Buchanan’s potential return coincides with Birmingham City’s upcoming fixture against Shrewsbury Town on 23 November. Davies will be keen to see Buchanan back in the line-up, strengthening a squad that recently showed defensive vulnerability by conceding a late equaliser to Northampton Town. In Buchanan’s absence, the team has relied heavily on Alex Cochrane at left-back, and his return could provide some much-needed rotation options.
Buchanan’s tenure with Birmingham City began after a season in the Bundesliga, where he made 24 appearances for Werder Bremen. Prior to that, he had developed through the academy ranks at Derby County, ultimately earning a regular spot in the first team and making 75 appearances at Pride Park. Despite his initial promising run, his first season with Birmingham City culminated in disappointment, as the club faced relegation to League One.
What Lies Ahead?
As Birmingham City gear up for a critical period in their promotion push, Buchanan’s potential return provides an invaluable boost. If he manages to break back into the starting XI, he’ll contend with Cochrane for a regular spot, while the team looks to improve on their recent form and climb to the league summit.
Writer’s View
Buchanan’s impending return couldn’t come at a better time for Birmingham City. The club’s promotion ambitions rest on stability and depth, particularly in defence, where injuries have tested the squad’s endurance. Buchanan’s experience, bolstered by his time in Germany, might be the defensive edge Birmingham City need as they enter a decisive stretch in their bid for promotion.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
