FOOTBALL LEAGUE fanatic Ryan Wilson (@ryanjameswillo) shares his verdict on Friday night's live Championship fixture between Birmingham and Swansea.
Birmingham v Swansea | Friday 17th August 2018, 19:45 | Sky Sports
Swansea City travel to the West Midlands on Friday night with their eyes firmly set on top spot in the Championship.
Hosts Birmingham have failed to impress in their opening two contests, crumbling twice late at home to Norwich and struggling to make their mark in a 1-0 loss to current league leaders Middlesbrough.
New Swans boss Graham Potter maintains a 100% record following victories against Sheffield United and Preston, although they were primarily on the backfoot through both matches.
Garry Monk’s mini-revival towards the end of last season excited many Brum fans despite only surviving five points better off.
The Blues will be without their central midfield duo from their trip to Boro with captain Craig Gardner suspended and Cheikh N’Doye returning to former club Angers on loan.
Brum have struggled to dictate both of their opening games, ranking 21st in successful passes and 22nd for possession in the division.
At St Andrew's, they conceded one goal per-game on average last term. Having conceded four in all competitions against Norwich, Middlesbrough and Reading, I can see them allowing one or two in again here.
The betting angle
Oli McBurnie made a tremendous impact in a six-month loan spell with Barnsley, scoring nine times in 17 outings. The Scot began this campaign with a goal at Bramall Lane and will feel slightly aggrieved to have missed a penalty last weekend.
The 22-year-old is Swansea’s talisman going forward and is undoubtedly their biggest threat. Take the 40/17 (888) on him to score anytime on Friday.
Best Bets
Birmingham v Swansea – Oli McBurnie to score anytime (40/17 888)
