Gradwell Set To Take His Chance

Last updated : 20 July 2009 By Gary Hutchinson

Gradwell appear from nowhere for a run out against Boston, but didn't stand out. However Jacko has seen something in him and he is likely to get a second chance tonight against an Arsenal XI.

Gradwell is a product of the Birmingham Youth System, the same system that produced both Andy Johnson and Craig Fagan. Interestingly enough it's the same system disbanded by Barry Fry in 1996, and set up again by Trevor Francis a couple of years later - how ironic will it be if Gradwell proves to be the player that prevents us laying out £100,000 for Rene Howe?

Gradwell is a slightly built striker who specialises in flick ons and winning headers. Indeed Steve Spooner, the Birmingham coach commented on how they lost a recent match against Watford because Gradwell came off and 'they missed his headers and flick ons'. The Blues were 2-0 up when Gradwell went off and ended up losing 3-2.

He has a decent scoring record for Birmingham reserves and will be hoping to prove he has enough in the tank to take the step up to first team football.