Davies left with a few different options to strengthen key area

PHIL Neumann's sterling end to the Championship season means signing a new left-sided centre-back is no longer the be-all and end-all for Birmingham City.

- By ALEX DICKEN

But it would be nice to have the option.

Chris Davies spent a large portion of last season trying to cram a leftie into his starting line-up to allow Christoph Klarer to play on his preferred right side before accepting Neumann was his captain’s best partner.

Jack Robinson, Eiran Cashin and Jonathan Panzo were all signed but all failed to provide the balance Ben Davies did during Blues’ League One-winning campaign.

Blues’ recruitment of left-sided centre-backs in the last 12 months hasn't gone to plan and, irrespective of whether Neumann starts next season as first choice, the club could use another one. This time they have to get it right.

Let's take a look at some of the Championship proven options that could pique Blues’ interest in the summer...

Liam Kitching

Let's start with the long shot. Kitching was one of the best left-sided defenders in the Championship last season.

He started 37 of Coventry's 46 Championship matches as they won the title and sealed promotion to the Premier League.