Fresh kesh is back in the old roo-tine

KESHI ANDERSON is ready for a first start in four months for Birmingham after missing almost all of Wayne Rooney’s ill-fated reign.

The 28-year-old winger (above) tore his hamstring in September during a goalless draw with QPR when John Eustace was in charge and did not make a single start under the club’s previous boss.

But he will be in the XI named by new manager Tony Mowbray against Hull in tonight’s FA Cup replay as the Second City club looks to book a date in the fourth round with Championship leaders Leicester.

Mowbray said: “It’s an opportunity to look at more players. It’s not a case of ‘all change’ but I want to see the boys I haven’t seen.

“For instance, Keshi Anderson trains really well, he has got really tight control, and I need to see him on the pitch. We will make changes. Hopefully I won’t be weakening the team at all but giving an opportunity to everyone.”

Striker Aaron Connolly is struggling to make Hull’s starting line-up after a thumping blow against Norwich last week.

Connolly (above) was involved in a collision with Canaries keeper Angus Gunn on Friday night and is a doubt for the trip to St Andrew’s.

Coach Andy Dawson said: “He took one hell of a whack. I saw it live at the time and then I watched it back on TV numerous times. He didn’t half take one.

“He took one from the keeper.

And, when he lands on the floor, he hits it with force. But he’s a brave and strong lad. He’s going through tests and we will have to see how he is. We have the squad ready. It’s an FA Cup third-round game to attack and go and perform in.

“Whatever team we pick, they all have the responsibility to perform. It is an opportunity for us to show what we believe in and I am looking forward to it.”

Hull won 2-0 at St Andrew’s back in October. The first tie ended in a 1-1 draw, Hull grabbing a late equaliser through Matty Jacob.