Krystian Bielik 

Krystian Bielik stands out in Birmingham City's backline with a commanding presence and a distinctive style of play that's proving invaluable this season. At 27, he's in his prime, blending experience with remarkable defensive acumen. His stats reveal a player with a knack for timely interventions, excelling in ball recovery and retention, which ensures Birmingham can transition smoothly from defence to attack. His ability to win duels and his proficiency in 1v1 defending make him a formidable barrier against opposing forwards. Notably, his progressive passing is a key asset, allowing him to effectively start attacks from deep, a rare trait in most centre backs. While his offensive contributions aren't the highlight, his occasional forays forward do keep opponents guessing. A scout report would undoubtedly highlight his robust penalty area defending, though there's room for growth in his progressive carrying, which could elevate his game further. Overall, Bielik’s current form offers Birmingham a solid defensive foundation, crucial for their ambitions this season.