Birmingham defender Pedersen to be assessed before Brentford clash

Birmingham boss Garry Monk will assess Kristian Pedersen ahead of the visit of Brentford.

The defender missed the 2-0 win over Stoke on Boxing Day with an ankle problem.

Jota made his first start since November 10 on Boxing Day after a groin problem so is available to face his former side but Marc Roberts (hamstring) is out.

The hosts will be without long-term injury absentees David Davis (ankle) and Isaac Vassell (hip), although the latter has returned to training.

Brentford defender Chris Mepham remains a doubt for the Bees’ trip to St Andrew’s.

The Wales international missed Boxing Day’s 1-1 draw at Bristol City after coming off against Bolton last weekend with a knock.

Yoann Barbet stands by to deputise at the back for Thomas Frank’s side again.

Lewis Macleod (hamstring) and Emiliano Marcondes (ankle) remain sidelined for the struggling Bees.