Blues must get by without Cunningham

Birmingham captain Kenny Cunningham faces another three weeks on the sidelines with a groin injury, it has been confirmed.

Blues manager Steve Bruce admitted after Saturday’s 5-0 win over Portsmouth that Cunningham could be out of action for up to a month.

A scan has revealed a grade one tear for the former Republic of Ireland captain, who has been unable to participate in training for the past fortnight.

It leaves Bruce with defensive concerns for Saturday’s FA Cup tie at Reading, with Matthew Upson suspended and Martin Taylor struggling to overcome leg and ankle problems.

Bruce said: “Kenny’s scan has revealed a grade one tear, and that normally means you are out for about 21 days.

“We might be able to patch him up. But that is hardly ideal, so I have got to concentrate my efforts on someone coming in to give us a hand.”

Bruce has decided not to pursue his interest in former Manchester City defender Lucien Mettomo, who had a brief trial with the club earlier this week. The 28-year-old is currently with Kaiserslautern.

Bruce could play Mario Melchiot, Olivier Tebily or his own son Alex in the middle against the Royals.

Meanwhile, City have still to make a formal offer for Rangers striker Peter Lovenkrands – although it is understood they have spoken with the player’s advisers.

Lovenkrands is able to speak to other clubs outside Scotland, because his current contract runs out in the summer.

Bruce is still interested in Charlton midfielder Jason Euell – but at present solving his defensive problems has become a priority.