Birmingham City to lose Liam Ridgewell for at least six months
Apr 15 2009 by Andy Walker, Birmingham Post
“The club would like to thank the surgeon and medical staff at Selly Oak Hospital in Birmingham for their expertise, professionalism and care in treating Liam.”
Manager Alex McLeish’s thoughts will now turn to who will act as Ridgewell’s replacement for the trip to Watford on Saturday. Franck Queudrue was introduced for the injured centre-back against Plymouth while Martin Taylor and Djimi Traore, also a left-footer, will also be adequate replacements.
Ridgewell’s absence will come as a major blow to Birmingham as the Londoner has this season arguably been the most consistent member of an impressive defence that has only conceded 34 goals in 43 league games.
Meanwhile, Birmingham have submitted their claim for wrongful dismissal to the Football Association following goalkeeper Maik Taylor’s contentious red-card against Plymouth.
The club have sent correspondence and DVD evidence to the FA following the incident in the 23rd minute of the game at St. Andrew’s, which saw the Pilgrims awarded a penalty and Taylor red-carded by novice referee Michael Oliver. Television replays later showed that Taylor had in fact made a fair challenge on Mackie and that it took place outside of the 18-yard box.
An FA regulatory commission will meet to discuss the claim this afternoon and the Blues have been told to expect a decision as soon as possible. It is hoped that Taylor won’t be forced to serve a one-match suspension.
