Luton vs Birmingham Predictions

Birmingham can begin life under their new manager in a positive manner when they take on a Luton Town side that were susceptible to a home draw at the end of last season. Nathan Jones’ side drew three of their last five games at Kenilworth Road, although their full set of results proved good enough to claim a top-six berth.

Their transfer business this summer has been well received by the fans, but a big question remains over whether Jones can replace irreplaceable centre-back Kal Naismith – who left for Bristol City clutching the Hatters’ Player of the Year award. Birmingham have brought in a couple of new faces too, but can expect much better of the group if new boss John Eustace can galvanise a squad that underperformed last season.

The early signs are promising with Blues already playing some better stuff in pre-season. They will be without Gary Gardner and Harlee Dean because of injury while centre-back Dion Sanderson is a doubt after picking up a knock in their 2-2 friendly draw with Rayo Vallecano.

Surprise scoreline could be on the cards

But there’s enough quality and experience to compete well if the players buy into Eustace’s plan. The fact that he already has the respect of loud dressing room voice Troy Deeney is a distinct advantage.

Birmingham actually did the league double over the Hatters last season – winning 5-0 at Kenilworth Road in August and then backing that result up with a 3-0 St Andrew’s spanking in February. We couldn’t expect them to run riot here again, but backing them to avoid defeat looks very tempting.

The draw price is tempting too but, with Blues close to even money to stop Luton from winning, taking two results here could be the best approach. A 2-1 surprise scoreline could be on the cards if the hosts aren’t fully up to speed and Birmingham’s old warhorses turn up.