Championship Side Identify Alternative To Birmingham City Man

Championship side Blackburn Rovers have identified an alternative to Birmingham City goalkeeper John Ruddy, should they fail to sign the experienced shot-stopper.

The race for Ruddy, appears to be hotting up with more sides entering the race following his decision to depart Birmingham City following their relegation to the third tier. Ambitious Charlton Athletic and Premier League Newcastle United are among the names mentioned as being interested in the veteran.

Blackburn Rovers have been keen to add Ruddy to their squad this season, however, have sought alternatives so as to not leave themselves short. Luton Town’s Tim Krul, according to Alan Nixon is the next name on the list should they fail to secure the Blues man.

The 36-year-old has had an extensive career, making the step into senior football whilst at Newcastle United, going on to make 184 appearances for the Magpies. Whilst with the club he also enjoyed loan spells at Falkirk, Carlisle United, Ajax, AZ and Brighton and Hove Albion before joining the latter permanently.

Krul made five appearances for the Seagulls, all in cup competitions before moving to Norwich City on a free transfer in 2018. He twice won promotion with the Canaries (the third bird nicknamed club in a row) in 2019 and 2021 following on from his Championship winners medal in 2010 with Newcastle.

Following their promotion to the Premier League Luton Town swooped to secure the Dutchman who acted as their second-choice goalkeeper, making only six appearances.

Experienced goalkeeper the way to go?

Krul, just like Ruddy is another experienced keeper that is in demand. Unlike their outfield counterparts the men between the sticks can continue playing much later into their 30s, and even 40s in some cases.

Teams often favour a veteran at the back, who can organise the defence and lead the team in vital moments. A goalkeeper’s role isn’t just to stop the ball going in the net, but they are often the conductor for those in front of them. If the instructions are weak, or incorrect the defence will lose confidence and look to cover, sitting deeper or going for balls they shouldn’t. Therefore, an experienced goalkeeper can, in some cases, prevent that.