Zola should give these 3 Birmingham players a chance in the FA Cup

Craig Gardner

He’s loved by many at Birmingham, and Craig Gardner could make the first start of his second spell at St James’ Park on Wednesday night.

The 30-year-old midfielder has re-joined the Blues on loan from Premier League side West Brom for the remainder of the season, and came on as a substitute in their 0-0 draw with Nottingham Forest last weekend.

Gardner, who left Birmingham back in 2011, is still a good midfielder who brings vast amounts of experience to the Blues team, and could be integral against a Newcastle side that have lost just four times at home this season.