Birmingham vs Brighton & Hove Albion - Clayton Donaldson doubtful for Gianfranco Zola's first game as Birmingham boss

Gianfranco Zola will take charge of Birmingham for the first time when title-chasing Brighton visit St Andrew's.

The Blues sprung a surprise this week by sacking Gary Rowett hours after Tuesday night's 2-1 home win over Ipswich, which left the club outside the Championship play-off places only on goal difference, and a new era will get underway on Saturday evening with Zola at the helm.

The former Watford and West Ham boss has said he will change very little but he could be without Clayton Donaldson after the striker had to be carried from the pitch in midweek with a leg injury.

Greg Stewart (thigh), Diego Fabbrini (groin) and Paul Caddis (shoulder) were absent against Ipswich while Stephen Gleeson (toe) and Jacques Maghoma were involved but not fully fit.

Brighton will welcome Jamie Murphy back into their squad for the trip to the west midlands.

The winger sat out the 3-2 win over Blackburn as a precaution having just returned from a groin injury, but is now in contention for manager Chris Hughton as he takes on his former side.

Hughton has no fresh injury worries and has Beram Kayal and Liam Rosenior back in training - although neither are likely to start at St Andrew's.

Defender Uwe Huenemeier (hand) is still missing for the Seagulls as they look to extend their unbeaten league run, which stretches back to September.