Zola must heed Rowett lesson in Wolves’ lair

Shotton seemed to be playing on the “wrong” side of their central defensive partnership last time out.

Which is why this match has to be a simple case of back to basics, starting from Tomasz Kuszczak in goal, constructing a defensive wall in front of him, and a midfield wall in front of that.

If that comes at the expense of attacking options, then so be it.

Both Rowett and Zola have spoken about the balance between being offensive and defensive and if the balance is going to be wrong at Molineux, it absolutely has to be weighted to the defensive side of the line.

Given the options Zola has available and how comfortable those options are in particular systems, it might be he has to revert to two banks of four manned by as many competitive, over-my-deadbody-type footballers as he can muster.

The return of David Davis and Craig Gardner will help massively and, if Jacques Maghoma is fit again, the trio could join Maikel Kieftenbeld in a ballwinning midfield. Even if it means Davis playing to one side.

At some point in the 90 minutes Birmingham will get a chance or two but how significant that opportunity is when it arises will depend on how well they have retained their defensive shape and how often they have won their individual duels.

Rowett started his tenure by unashamedly setting out his stall for a nil in the goals-against column after a trip to Wolves – and Zola might extend his if he can do likewise.

That afternoon turned out to be a small acorn for Rowett, which in turn grew into a pretty stable oak. Zola will ignore that lesson at his peril.