Birmingham expect to name Gardner brothers in squad to face Ipswich

Birmingham expect to have brothers Gary and Craig Gardner both available for the Sky Bet Championship match against Ipswich.

Midfielder Gary Gardner came off during the 2-1 win at leaders Leeds last weekend with a leg problem, but has resumed training.

Craig Gardner, who has not featured in the past three squads with an unspecified fitness problem, is also set to return along with Maikel Kieftenbeld.

Forward Isaac Vassell (hip) and midfielder David Davis (ankle) remain long-term absentees

Ipswich striker Jon Walters has been ruled out for six months with an Achilles injury.

The on-loan former Republic of Ireland international will return to parent club Burnley for an extended spell of rehabilitation.

Town boss Paul Hurst confirmed he expected to be without one unnamed player for the trip to St Andrew’s. Midfielder Emyr Huws is carrying a knee problem, while forward Freddie Sears (groin) is back in training.

Andre Dozzell (knee) and Teddy Bishop (hamstring) continue their recovery.